Moratorium extension provides relief but only a short-term solution - Anwar

The government's move to extend the three-month moratorium that is now more targeted is seen to provide relief to individuals who have lost their jobs and income. However, it is only a short-term solution to a very big problem.

Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the fate of those who are self-employed and in the informal sector should also be taken into account as they are also severely affected by the pandemic.

"The additional moratorium and flexibility in loan repayment depends on the application and approval that will be implemented by banks.”

"Therefore, what is announced will not be automatically guaranteed and the bank will use their discretion to determine who is eligible or not eligible for the loan deferment," he said in a statement on Thursday.

Anwar, who is also PKR President, also urged the government to be transparent and accountable in ensuring that the benefits and measures announced really reach those who are in need.

He said developing a thorough solution for unemployment, poverty and the widening of income gap should be given priority by the government, as well as creating a sustainable social security program to support the poor while the economy is in recovery.

At the same time, Anwar also urged the government to provide more assistance to the public and entrepreneurs of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) who are currently struggling with financial problems during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced a three-month moratorium extension for individuals who lost their jobs and income following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As for the rest, the government will implement a targeted approach.