Philip (fourth right) presents the contribution to Tan. Also seen are Kian Cheok (left), Sih (third left) and Dato Sim (centre).
KUCHING: Almost 23 years after her husband died from an illness, widow Tan Gek Hiang finally collected her social security survivor benefits yesterday.
Tan gratefully received the lump sum, the amount not disclosed, from Social Security Organisation (Socso) state director Philip Sangkan who came to her house in Tabuan Laru here.
She had not been denied from claiming the benefits, but two decades had passed before she got to know through her sister that she was eligible for it.
“I am thankful to many people who have helped me to finally collect the benefit which I did not know was available or that I deserved it,” she said.
“I hope that by sharing this experience, others who may lack the knowledge can learn about the benefits of social security that provides some financial protection for the immediate family,” she added.
Tan, 58, who works as a cleaner in a company has no children and lives with her sister.
She will also receive a lifetime monthly survivor’s pension, starting this month.
It was Tan’s sister who persuaded her to apply for the Socso benefit after attending a related seminar organised by the Federation of Community Association Kuching Division in collaboration with Batu Lintang Recreation Club and Sarawak Traditional Association at SUPP headquarters in January.
Association secretary Sih Hua Tong said there were still many citizens out there unaware of the purpose of Socso.
“Tan refused to do anything about it at first, knowing there was no evidence or documents to support her claim after such a long period, and it was embarrassing for her to make the request. But we assisted her.
“The process may be a little tedious though the application was smooth and was quickly approved.
“We hope to raise awareness and educate the public about the importance of Socso and its benefits,” Sih said.
He said they had received more than 10 cases requiring similar assistance.
Sih advised those who deserved the benefits and fulfilled the criteria not to be embarrassed, but come forward to make their claim because it was what they deserved.
Philip urged those in a similar situation to approach them to find out how they could sort out the benefits matter.
“We are happy that this case has been resolved with the assistance of so many people, without whom it may not have been possible. And today, we bring joy to this family,” he said.
“Even after 23 years ago, Socso is here to give the benefit to the deserving beneficiary,” he added.
Association chairman Dato Sim Swee Yong, assistant secretary-general Sim Kian Cheok and Chinese community leaders were among those at the presentation ceremony.