Penang Budget 2027 sets aside RM600 aid for e-hailing drivers, RM500 for newlyweds

GEORGE TOWN, Oct 30 — E-hailing drivers will be getting a special one-off incentive of RM600 in 2027 under the newly tabled state Budget 2027.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the special incentive is in recognition of the welfare of those working in the public transport sector.

“This is for eligible drivers in 2027 with an allocation ceiling of RM9 million,” he said when tabling the Supply Bill at the state legislative assembly today.

He said there will also be an allocation of RM1.2 million for taxi drivers and school bus operators in 2027.

As for the incentives for newlyweds, he said the Mempelai Emas programme is an expansion of the i-Sejahtera programme as a form of appreciation for couples who have recently married in Penang.

“Couples who meet the eligibility requirements will receive a one-off contribution of RM500,”  he said.

He said the state government had disbursed RM57.8 million through the implementation of the first and second phases of the i-Sejahtera programme as at September 30.

The programme benefited a total 299,504 recipients, particularly senior citizens, persons with disabilities, single mothers and housewives.

He added that the addition of the Mempelai Emas programme is also included in the state’s annual allocation of RM58 million for the i-Sejahtera programme in 2027.

Meanwhile, he said the state government is also examining changes in the structure of society and current housing needs.

He said there is a growing need for housing involving single people and senior citizens living alone.

“As such, in 2027, the Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP) will explore the co-living concept for suitable state government rental housing and People’s Housing Programme units,” he said.

Chow said the state will be introducing a Penang State Social Development Fund for the first time in 2027 with an allocation of RM350,000.

“The fund will support the implementation of various welfare and social development initiatives, particularly to assist those in need, address poverty and social inequality, and empower vulnerable groups so that they are not left behind in the state’s development,” he said.