By Sheeda Fathil
SHAH ALAM, Nov 13 — In over a decade since Pakatan Harapan first took over the state government, many of Selangor’s residents have said they are comfortable with the coalition’s administration as it has taken care to address the issues they face.
Trader Hashim Ahmad, 65, who has resided in Shah Alam for over 40 years, said the Harapan government has provided much help to the B40 low-income group.
He said the people have received various benefits, including Jom Shopping vouchers, assistance with business equipment, as well as for basic necessities.
“Prior to this, when Barisan Nasional governed Selangor, they appeared uncaring over the plight of traders, let alone provide any help,” he said at the Section 17 pasar malam on Thursday (November 10)
Rokiah Mohd Noor, 68, said she has obtained much assistance since Selangor came under Harapan’s administration, as seen through the Bantuan Kehidupan Sejahtera Selangor (Bingkas) initiative and Skim Peduli Sihat.
The single mother commended the easy and expedient aid registration process for these forms of assistance, like Tabung Warisan Anak Selangor (Tawas) for her grandchild.
“My siblings are envious of the help provided by Selangor, as their states lack such initiative. I hope other states will use Selangor as a benchmark in helping the people,” she said.
Senior citizen Wan Salmiah Mior Yahaya, 62, said the Harapan Manifesto is good and shows concern for the people, particularly the offer to live comfortably in one’s golden years.
“But it would also be good if the new government can open a special transit centre for the elderly to gather, that would be good. That way, their children can send them there for the day, and pick them up again on the way back home from work,” she said.
Another senior citizen, 75-year-old Nora Abdul Karim, said when her home was inundated by floods, the state government helped out a lot, including through field visits to her family.
“We received much aid during the floods, like basic necessities, mattresses, and helping to clean the house. Alhamdulillah, I can only hope the Federal government will be able something like what Selangor has done,” she said.
