ALOR GAJAH, Nov 7 -- The Budget 2021 tabled in Parliament yesterday shows the government's concern for the people, especially in combating the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, says Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Special Functions) Datuk Seri Mohd Redzuan Md Yusof.

He said various assistance packages were allocated under the new budget, especially for the rural population and the B40 target group, to help reduce their burden during this challenging period.

"The government understands the difficulties and hardships of society at all levels. I am confident that if this pandemic lasts beyond next year, the government will definitely improve the assistance so that it can benefit everyone," he said after officiating the launch of a new community centre in Pulau Sebang here.

Yesterday, Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz announced that under Budget 2021, another RM 1 billion would be allocated to curb the third wave of COVID-19, including RM150 million for the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).

Commenting further, Mohd Redzuan said NADMA would ensure efforts to combat COVID-19 would be enhanced, including in aspects of the standard operating procedures while managing flood victims, especially on the East Coast of the Peninsula and Sabah during the northeast monsoon season.

-- BERNAMA