Finance Minister II Johari Abdul Ghani today denied that small-business owners registered under Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) had their Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia (BR1M) applications rejected.

"Some people were complaining that their BR1M applications were rejected. They are not being rejected, but we want more particulars.

"What happened was some of these applicants were not working with any company. They are small proprietors and small businesspersons," Johari told Malaysiakini.

The Inland Revenue Board (IRB), which deals with BR1M applications, has asked the applicants to submit copies of their bank statements to prove that they are qualified for BR1M, Johari added.

"BR1M is a targeted subsidy for households earning a monthly income of RM4,000, RM3,000 and below respectively, as well as individuals earning below RM2,000.

"If you don't work anywhere, then we would ask if you have a small business registered under SSM. IRB wants to know your income," he said.

Johari said if they earn more than RM4,000 and still enjoy the BR1M handouts, then it would defeat the purpose of the targeted subsidy.

Those who had their applications rejected, he added, can always make an appeal to the IRB.

It was reported that more than seven million people are entitled to BR1M this year.

Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak said in February that the government had approved 5,153,238 applicants.

He said the outcome of 3,123,950 more applications would be announced in March.

BR1M is paid out in February, June and August.