Initiatives by the government help to alleviate the burden of the poor at a time of economic difficulties.
For some, RM200 may just mean dinner for two in some fancy restaurant, or drinks with friends after work. For others, the amount actually goes a long way, especially those struggling to make ends meet.
Growing up in a family with five other siblings, things have always been hard for us. Our father worked as a driver and mum was a part-time store assistant. I am used to wearing and using hand-me-downs and we have been taught to save where we can.
Recently the government announced that youths like me, who are aged between 18 and 20 can apply for the eBeliaRahmah initiative where we would be eligible to claim RM200 which would be credited to our eWallet.
The timing for this money could not be better. It came at a time when I was in need of some extra cash to purchase some materials needed for my university project.
I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in a public university. Although the fees are heavily subsidised, expenses like rental, food and study material still amount to a lot of money, for someone who doesn’t come from a privileged background.
My university is in the Klang Valley, where the cost of living is higher. My monthly rental is RM530 and food will set me back by at least RM600 per month (it would have been higher if not for Menu Rahmah).
This RM200 provides some relief not just to me but many of my friends who are in the same financial situation as me. Application for eBeliaRahmah was not cumbersome and everything was done online. For this, I am grateful to the government.
As I said earlier, the RM200 means a lot. Those who belittle such efforts probably do not know what it means to be financially disadvantaged. Initiatives such as this by the government help to alleviate the burden of the poor at a time of economic difficulties.
The views expressed here are strictly those of Gunasegaran Thambipillay from Petaling Jaya.