COVID-19: RM1 billion for MoH, RM600 allowance for healthcare staff - Muhyiddin

The government will increase a special allocation for the Ministry of Health (MoH) from RM500 million as announced in a previous economic stimulus package to RM1 billion to help curb the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic.

In presenting the Prihatin Rakyat Economic Stimulus Package (PRIHATIN) today, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the fund is specifically for the purchase of equipment besides to enhance services to combat COVID-19, including getting medical expertise from private health services.

The Prime Minister also said he was aware that the healthcare workers were working tirelessly even under fatigue and stressful conditions.

"In recognition of their sacrifices, the government will increase the special allowance received from RM400 to RM600 a month from April 1, 2020 until the outbreak ends," he added.

In support of MoH's efforts to carry out more COVID-19 tests, Muhyiddin said the insurance and takaful industry would create a special fund of RM8 million.

“(The fund is to) cover the cost of screening tests worth up to RM300 for each policyholder and medical takaful certificate as directed by MoH to undergo testing at a private hospital or private laboratory.

"In addition, the insurance and family takaful companies will offer a three-month deferment of premium payments or contributions to contributors whose source of income is affected by the outbreak," he added.