Despite a boost to the Welfare Department and direct cash transfers, an economist said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s Budget 2024 proposal yesterday still falls short of ensuring adequate social protections.

While the increased allocation for Rahmah cash aid (STR) is welcomed, Malaysia University of Science and Technology economics professor Geoffrey Williams pointed out that the RM10 billion sum amounts to an average of only RM92 per month for the six million people who are expected to benefit.

As for the RM2.4 billion aid to be channelled through the Welfare Department, Williams said...