By Shamz Johan
AMPANG, Nov 27 — Members of the public have described the shopping vouchers under the Jom Shopping initiative, which was increased from RM100 to RM200, as a timely gesture amid the current increase in the price of goods.
Particularly for low-income families, many are grateful and pleased with the assistance announced by Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari during the tabling of the 2023 Selangor Budget on Friday (November 25)
“The increase of the vouchers’ value is just in time, as things are expensive nowadays. So the increased value can help families stock up the larder,” said private sector employee Muhd Faris Mustaqim Abdullah, 36.
Mohd Zarul Mohd Ali, 37, praised the initiative as being able to ease the people’s burden and simultaneously help families purchase essentials, especially during the festive season.
“This has been well-received, as the vouchers are very helpful, especially for low-income groups.
“The value of the vouchers is sufficient to buy necessities, as well as clothing for Hari Raya Aidilfitri,” he said, adding he is thankful for the assistance provided by the state government and the Menteri Besar.
During the tabling, Amirudin announced the household income eligibility threshold for Jom Shopping voucher recipients will be increased from RM2,000 per month to RM3,000 per month, starting next year.
Up to RM16.48 million has been allocated in the budget for Jom Shopping, in conjunction with festive periods and which are expected to benefit 82,400 recipients.
The programme’s implementation will coincide with the major festivals of Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Deepavali.
Meanwhile, housewife Norhafizah Ali, 36, said the vouchers will also help the local economy when people shop during the festive periods.
“Jom Shopping is very useful for underprivileged families, as it can reduce their burden, as well as help them in terms of savings and food aid.
“The local economy also stands to gain when more people go out shopping,” she said.
Freelance writer Yusliza Yakimir Abdul Talib, 36, said efforts to promote the programme ought to be increased so more target groups can be better informed as a result.
“It is necessary to ensure that efforts to promote this assistance are enhanced. I myself never received the aid, as I did not know who to refer to or which channel to ask.
“Many more would like to know (of other assistance efforts),” she said.
