OVER TO YOU: Chong receiving the aid from Dr Jerip on behalf of the recipients. — Photo by Rais Sanusi.
KUCHING: The urban poor in the state should approach the relevant organisations so that they can get the necessary aid provided by the government, said Assistant Minister of Public Health Dr Jerip Susil yesterday.
The Bengoh assemblyman said the government had its limitation and shortcoming in its effort to eradicate urban poverty; the proactive step taken by the urban poor was therefore essential for the aid to reach the group.
“Some poor people feel shy and ashamed of getting help from the government. But, being poor is not something to be ashamed of. You need to be seen and express your needs.
“If you refuse to seek help, it might be hard for you to escape from the poverty trap,” he said at the Touch-Point Cash Aid handing over ceremony held at the community hall of Hui Sing Garden here.
Dr Jerip pointed out that by registering with the relevant organisations, the government could also extend its assistance in terms of education for children of poor families.
He stressed that education was vital for someone to break the cycle of poverty. Therefore, the right of a child to receive education, he said, should not be deprived just because a family was poor.
“For those who have received help, please help those who need help by bringing them to register with us.”
Earlier, Carnation Club of Kuching and Samarahan chairperson Magdalene Chong expressed appreciation to the government for providing assistance to single mothers.
She thanked the government for being aware of the challenges facing by single mothers.
“Life is always challenging for single mothers, who are not only facing financial difficulty but also social stigma. I’m pleased that the government is assisting us as well as other less fortunate groups.”
A total of 50 recipients received the RM500 aid each yesterday, of which 35 were the members of the club. The other 15 recipients applied for the aid with the assistance of SUPP Stampin sub-branch.