The Covid-19 crisis and the ensuing movement control order (MCO) have deep negative ramifications for many Malaysians, especially vulnerable, low-income families. Combined with other recent, albeit pre-MCO, research on low-income Malaysia, there are compelling reasons for the Malaysian government to do more for vulnerable groups. The pre-existing financial challenges faced by low-income households threaten to deteriorate further if consequential action is not taken. Among other key findings from the UNFPA/Unicef report:> The unemployment rate among heads of low-income households, at roughly 25%, is five times the national average. > Low-income households have subsequently been forced to curtail expenditure where possible.

Source: The Star September 15, 2020 02:15 UTC