Assistance: Ensure no one is left out
Govt concerned over quality of delivery system, dept told
Govt concerned over quality of delivery system, dept told
LAHAD DATU: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin has reminded the Sabah Social Services Department to carry out their duties in a clean, trustworthy and efficient manner, and ensure that the Government’s assistance reaches the targeted group. The Government is very concerned about the quality of the delivery system and does not want anyone, especially those in the interior, to be left out in terms of welfare assistance. “We always ensure that the objective community, especially for the rural folks, is met,” said Yahya, who is also Community Development and Consumer affairs Minister. “The Government is always sensitive towards the people’s needs,” he added in a speech read by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Nasrun Datu Mansur, during the state-level National Senior Citizens Day 2007 celebration here, yesterday. The Government’s duty is to ensure that the people’s welfare is safe guarded and the Department should play an effective role to make sure the objective is realised. Statistics shows that there are some 19,346 senior citizens statewide who are eligible for the General Assistance Scheme and Senior Citizens Assistance Scheme, for which RM21 million has been allocated towards the two schemes. “To ensure their welfare is protected, the Government has introduced a lot of new programmes for them. I assure the citizens that apart from these existing schemes, we will come up with more programmes that would be beneficial to them,” he said. Yahya also urged the senior citizens with special skills and expertise to continue to be active, especially in welfare and community-based activities. “Those active senior citizens, especially with vast experience and knowledge, should continue to contribute towards the development of the State. You may share your expertise by joining non-governmental organisations or participate in whatever programmes that would benefit yourself and others too. “We want to further encourage senior citizens to contribute towards nation building and encourage the younger generation to participate in welfare services,” he said.
Meanwhile over 1,000 people attended the event to witness the presentation of special awards to outstanding recipients. Senior Citizens Award for the Male Category was awarded to Datu Mansur Datu Jalilul Hassan, 84, Kampung Tabanak, while his village-mate Aliah Mahadin, 73, was awarded a similar recognition in the Female Category. Datu Mansur is a former teacher and Nasrun’s father. Another special award, dubbed the Senior Citizens Couple Award, was presented to Sawal Kerosdikeromo, 79, and wife Malandong Mohd Said, 73.
The award was presented based on their contribution and excellent performance, especially in raising their children. Also present were the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Michael Emban; Sabah Social Services Department Director Datuk Mastor Samin, who is also the event’s organising chairman, and the District Officer, Amat MD Yusof.
