Previously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim hinted at “good news” for all Malaysians, with a special announcement.
After much anticipation, the long-awaited announcement was finally made yesterday (July 23) at 10:30 AM.
MCA president proposes returning RM100 cash aid
During a live broadcast, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that in conjunction with National Day, all Malaysians aged 18 and above will receive a one-off RM100 payment, which will be disbursed via the MyKad.
In response, Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) President, Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong, proposed that the government introduce a system allowing Malaysians to voluntarily return the RM100 cash aid under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme.
“I propose that the government create a mechanism for Malaysians to voluntarily return the RM100 SARA aid to the government if they don’t need it. The funds should be directed toward those in real need and used to improve healthcare and education,” he wrote.
“A win-win situation for both the people and the government”
The president suggested that the returned funds could be put to better use, starting with scrapping the Rakan KKM scheme, which he described as “biased and only benefiting those who can afford to pay more just to skip the queue.”
“Instead, the money could help speed up elective treatments for the 15,000 patients at public hospitals who are currently facing waiting times of up to 21 months,” he said.
He also pointed out that the funds could go toward reducing wait times for surgeries at public hospitals and providing scholarships for deserving students, including straight-A SPM leavers, as well as STPM and matriculation grads with excellent CGPAs who are still being denied spots at matriculation colleges or public universities.
“I believe PMX, former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir, Cabinet Ministers, and many MPs and state assemblymen would also be willing to give up the RM100 SARA aid for the greater good. I’ll be the first to contribute mine,” he said.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know down in the comments!
Also read: PMX Special Announcement: RM100 Aid, Additional Public Holiday & More for Malaysians!
