Senior Citizens Ought To Be Given A Small Monetary Hand Out Monthly

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THE government’s RON95 subsidy scheme is a welcomed move that is a great help to the motorists who are facing an increase in the cost of living.
The cost of the subsidised RON95 is RM1.99 per litre whereas the unsubsidised RON95 is RM 2.60 per litre.
Malaysian vehicle users can avail of a monthly quota of 300 litres of the subsidised RON95 and can thus save about RM180 per month—an amount that means a lot to many B40 households who are struggling to cope with the ever increasing prices of essentials and other items.
The government has wisely excluded the non-citizens from the scheme and has saved millions of ringgit.
However, quite a large number of vehicle users have been deprived as the driving licence and the Mykad are essential for the subsidy scheme. Quite a number of the B40 especially motorcyclists have been excluded and this has led to misgivings and protests from this group.
It is hoped that the government will look into their plight as many of them in the villages and rural areas own bikes for local travel but do not have a licence.
Even though this is legally wrong a grace period could be given whereby these vehicle owners can apply for a driving license which can be used for the subsidy scheme.
Another relevant issue concerns senior citizens who do not own vehicles or have valid driving licences. The government should consider some form of monetary subsidy for this category of senior citizens.
Other than the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) scheme and the prime minister’s special RM100 cash assistance this year, senior citizens do not get any other benefits from the government.
The recently announced RM600 senior citizens subsidy applies only to a very small category and leaves the main bulk of seniors without any other benefits.
As such the government should, in tandem with the RON95 subsidy, consider that senior citizens be given some form of monetary benefit to prevent or offset any discrimination.
Many senior citizens have, due to their age, not renewed their driving licences and therefore do not qualify for the RON95 scheme.
The higher cost of living affects most Malaysians, and senior citizens are one of those severely affected due to their lack of income, cost of medicines and treatment and other needs.
It is high time the Madani government considers their plight and comes with a positive response. 
V. Thomas is a Focus Malaysia viewer.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT. 
- Focus Malaysia.

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