THE state government has approved an increase in the per capita income rate for the Bantuan Agenda Ekonomi Saksama (BAES) from RM322 to RM368.
State Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim announced the incresse during her ‘Jelajah Manfaat Rakyat’ programme today.
“At the State Executive Council (Exco) meeting held last week, the increase in the per capita income rate for the BAES programme was approved. It will be implemented this March,” Lim told Buletin Mutiara.
Also accompanying Lim were her special assistants, as well as state Social Welfare Department (JKM) director Rozita Ibrahim and her team.
During the prgramme, Lim visited the homes of three needy recipients in the Northeast District, at Jalan Makloom, Jalan P. Ramlee, and Jelutong, where she also provided daily household essentials. These individuals had previously been approved to receive the welfare assistance from JKM.
“I would like to thank everyone who reached out to inform us about the hardships faced by our recipients.
“We hope that people can act as the ‘eyes and ears’ of the state government, providing information about those in need. Together with the JKM, we will work to support them,” Lim, who is also the Sungai Pinang assemblyman, said.
She added that JKM, being a welfare-focused agency concerned with charitable support, provides assistance beyond financial aid, including counseling and guidance on employment opportunities.
Meanwhile, Rozita highlighted the importance of community awareness in supporting those facing difficulties, whether neighbours, siblings, relatives, or others.
She also emphasised that grassroots-level organisations, such as the Village Community Management Council (MPKK), should remain alert and attentive, and report such situations to the JKM.
“We will continue working together with the state government to address any issues that are brought to our attention. Do not feel embarrassed to seek help, as this is a matter of survival,” she added.
Others present included Penang JKM Enforcement Department senior assistant director Jamuna Naidu Nessen, Northeast District JKM officer Baizlin Hasbi Bedol and Chithartany Rajalingam from Penang JKM’s Welfare, Productive and Community Department.
Story & Pix by Tanushalini Moroter