Amanah Saham Rahmah initiative to benefit underpriviliged
22 Aug 2023 11:33pm
Picture for illustrative purposes - FILE PIX
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Although still in the study phase, the effort initiated through the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) is seen as capable of adding value to the income of the group in addressing the cost of living concerns.
Some residents consider this a positive measure, requesting KPDN to provide more information and to promote the initiative widely to ensure eligible individuals do not miss out on it.
Norsahila Hussin, a 52-year-old housewife from Manjoi, is hopeful that the initiative will help alleviate the burden of living expenses at present.
"I hope it will be able to provide a steady income to the less fortunate in purchasing essential items and supporting their children's education," she said.
"I'm currently receiving RM900 in invalidity pension from the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) to cover my daily expenses. I also hope to be chosen for this initiative," said the breast cancer patient who hasn’t been able to work for the past three years.
Mohd Rofik Mohd Hasan Kadiz, 73, said it was important for government departments or agencies to conduct regular visits, especially to remote areas, in order to effectively communicate the existence of such facilities to the intended recipients.
"So, the explanation regarding the assistance must be clear and in simple language. If done well, I believe it will reach the intended recipients effectively," said the retired government employee.
Meanwhile, Mohd Wazir Mohd Bakhari, 38, a civil servant said the upcoming initiative was the best way to uplift the hardcore poor and it demonstrated the government's sensitivity towards their cost of living burden.
"My understanding is that this assistance (dividend) is not a one-off aid as given to people previously. I find it beneficial, and with this support, the target recipients can use it to reduce their financial burden," he added.
However, he said that the responsible parties must conduct detailed screening to ensure that the assistance reaches the deserving target group.
Recently, Perak Development Office director Datuk Shamshuzaman Sulaiman said the number of household heads from the hardcore poor group in Perak had decreased by 30 per cent, from 9,402 in Jan 31 to 6,617 on July 31.
In Selangor, single mother Kamsiah Mat Ali, 56, from Shah Alam, believes the initiative will help her support the education of her two children currently studying at public higher education institutions.
"My elder child is currently studying at Politeknik Sultan Idris Shah, Sabak Bernam in Selangor, while the younger one will continue her studies at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Melaka this September. Indeed, a significant amount of money is required."
"If I could receive dividends without having to invest a substantial sum, it would definitely ease the burden. The money I have is mostly for immediate expenses, and saving is tough with my monthly salary of only RM350," she added.
On Aug 16, Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Fuziah Salleh said the ministry was currently exploring the Amanah Saham Rahmah initiative to aid hardcore poor families in the country. She hoped that it would help alleviate the cost of living issue and offer a steady income for the group.
Fuziah said that through the initiative, the government would invest a specific amount of money in selected companies. The dividends generated from these investments would be provided to families in need, while the initial invested amount would still belong to the government - BERNAMA
