Hanoi:Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that a one-off special financial aid of RM1,000 for 38,000 taxi and rental car drivers will start being distributed in phases beginning this Wednesday. The initial distribution will involve a group invited to the Ministry of Transport to receive vouchers, followed by other groups in stages.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the aid follows an announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the Budget 2027 presentation. Loke emphasized the importance of distributing the aid promptly so that Hindu drivers receive it before Deepavali. The funds for this aid come from revenue generated through the sale of the 'H' series special registration numbers, which have already been collected this year.

The bidding for the 'H' series special registration numbers previously generated RM91.2 million in revenue. This initiative is part of a broader effort to channel the proceeds from these sales back to the public, as outlined in the budget themed "Malaysia MADANI Reaching for the Skies while Anchored on Our Values."

In addition to the financial aid, Loke mentioned the upcoming MyKomuter50 pass, priced at RM50 per month, which is expected to be implemented by January 1 next year. This pass will allow unlimited use of KTM Komuter services for 30 days, aiming to reduce transportation and living costs for Malaysian citizens. The pass's introduction became feasible with the Ministry of Finance's approval, allowing collaboration with Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) for its implementation.

The government is also working on improving KTM Komuter services, including deploying 12 new train sets in the northern sector by February next year and gradually increasing train frequency within the Klang Valley.