SHAH ALAM, Jan 20 — Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reiterated his call for the Federal government to increase financial aid to flood victims, and avoid another round of Employee Provident Fund (EPF) withdrawals.
He said flood victims are becoming desperate, after incurring huge losses caused by the recent disaster.
“Some say it is necessary to provide some flexibility for contributors to withdraw their own money. If not possible then provide an easier alternative for them, as we have to monitor this group.
“Provide additional (financial) aid to reduce their burden,” Anwar said during the special Parliamentary sitting to discuss matters relating to floods and long-term flood management today.
However, he stressed that he would not support any ideas that could affect the future of the people.
“If the fund is withdrawn, in five or six years after retirement, there is no way they can guarantee their own livelihoods or that of their families.
“So it is agreed to stop contributors from withdrawing their EPF funds, subject to an increase in allocation (financial aid) to flood victims. Only then can it be balanced,” Anwar said.
On January 3 Anwar, who is also PKR president, urged the Federal government to provide flood victims with immediate financial aid between RM5,000 and RM10,000, after disallowing further withdrawals under the EPF i-Citra scheme.
