KUALA LUMPUR: The government’s move to bring forward the disbursement of the Prihatin Rakyat financial payout from the end of this month to tomorrow is a sweet deal for a pineapple farmer.
Mohd Saeh Sapaie, 58, said he was at his wit’s end thinking of ways to raise money to manage his 0.4-hectare farm in Johan Setia, Klang, when he heard the good news.
“I can breathe easier now. My finances are tight and I was worried about having to cater to the needs of my family and ensure that my pineapple farm would not be affected.
“I had planted new pineapple crowns before the Covid-19 pandemic and Movement Control Order (MCO). I am waiting for the harvest and it’s important to maintain my farm and fertilise it.
“I am glad financial assistance will be disbursed soon. I can buy essentials for my family and ensure my work at the farm goes well,” the father of four told the New Sunday Times.
Mohd Saeh will not be taking the aid for granted. He said he would survey for the best prices at grocery shops or supermarkets to stretch his ringgit before making purchases of foodstuff.
Freelance graphic designer Edmund Au, 37, said receiving the aid sooner would help with his family’s daily expenses.
“The aid will help me put food on the table for my family.”
He said the government’s move to expedite payment by three weeks was important as it would support local traders who may be facing difficulties selling their produce.
“We need to get our own economy going during this difficult time and I hope my fellow recipients will spend their money buying from local traders.
“This will help boost the domestic economy, albeit on a small scale. It is a win-win situation for consumers and traders,” he said.
Mohd Saeh and Au are among the 8.3 million Malaysians who will receive cash aid of between RM500 and RM1,600 under the payout, which is referred to as “Bantuan Prihatin Nasional”.
Social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye praised the government’s effort, saying it was a huge relief for the rakyat.
“The earlier, the better. At this point of time, in view of the MCO extension, it’s important that the Bottom 40 per cent (B40) group have money in their pockets so they can buy food and help them tide through this period.
“If not, how are they going to source money? I hope the payout will go smoothly and speedily and the people are assisted in getting the aid,” said Lee.
Meanwhile, Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association chief executive officer Datuk Dr Paul Selvaraj said the assistance was timely as many people had been affected by the MCO.
“I would like to advise consumers to spend their money wisely.
“Buy what is necessary and according to the family’s needs. Keep others in mind. Do not resort to panic buying.”