One-off RM100 cash aid a step in the right direction, says Kuching South Mayor
KUCHING (July 23): Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has welcomed the federal government's RM100 cash aid initiative, describing it as a timely move to ease the financial burden of Malaysians amid rising living costs.
Speaking to reporters at MBKS today, Wee said the assistance, though modest in amount, reflects the government's commitment to help the people during challenging times.
'In times like these, everyone has a responsibility and a role to play,' he said.
He was asked to comment on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's announcement earlier today of the cash assistance aimed at easing Malaysia's rising cost of living.
He said this one-off assistance under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme, will be credited via MyKad for purchases of essential goods between Aug 31 and Dec 31 at 4,100 stores nationwide.
Wee also noted that the initiative shows leadership and concern for the rakyat's well-being.
While some may see RM100 as a small sum, Wee believes it's a step in the right direction — one that shows sincerity and could lead to more substantial support in the future as the country's finances improve.
'During this hard time, you know, some of the people look at it as a small help, but it's an effort they put up.
'We start small, and when the country's finances recover, there might be more to come.
'So whatever effort they put in, it is good for the rakyat (people),' he said.
Wee also urged the public to adopt a more constructive attitude rather than criticising such initiatives outright.
'Some of the people say it's only a RM100, but better than nothing, is it not?
'If we can help, I think it's an initiative worth supporting.
'If we receive it, RM100 is still RM100.
'Who knows? Maybe another few more months, you might receive RM500, then later on increase to RM1,000.
'So look at it in a more positive way,' he said.
He called on Malaysians to remain united and supportive, especially when genuine efforts are being made to assist the public.
'We all want to be proud of our country. So when leaders make an effort, we should take it in a positive spirit.
'If you want to comment, make sure it's constructive, don't just criticise.'
Wee concluded by encouraging Malaysians to stay positive and move forward together, even through difficult times. anwar ibrahim RM100 cash assistance Wee Hong Seng
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New Straits Times
16 minutes ago
- New Straits Times
MEF welcomes Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has welcomed the immediate and unconditional ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, calling it as timely amid rising global uncertainties. MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said Malaysian employers, particularly those with regional operations, supply chains and investments in both countries, were grateful for the ceasefire, brokered through the "tireless efforts and leadership" of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. "At a time when employers are grappling with an increasingly complex global business environment, marked by slowing global trade, ongoing geopolitical tensions and recent disruptions linked to the United States tariff rates, this ceasefire is a welcome and much-needed development," he said in a statement today. He added Malaysia maintained substantial trade and investment ties with both Thailand and Cambodia. "Thailand is one of Malaysia's top trading partners in Asean, with bilateral trade exceeding RM100 billion annually. Many Malaysian companies operate factories, logistics hubs and retail outlets in the country. "Cambodia, while smaller in volume, is a growing trade partner. Malaysia's total investments in Cambodia surpassed RM 12.6 billion in recent years, particularly in the construction, banking, agriculture and telecommunications sectors. "As such, any instability in Thailand and Cambodia poses real risks to business continuity, supply chains and regional confidence." Syed Hussain said the swift de-escalation would ease concerns raised among members of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Employers with direct operations or investment interests in both nations. "This proactive resolution helps prevent further commercial losses, supply chain disruptions and reputational risks that can emerge from prolonged conflicts. "Employers across the region, particularly those in labour-intensive manufacturing, agribusiness, logistics and cross border retail now have the opportunity to continue operations without disruption, while maintaining the safety of their workforce and facilities." He added that MEF reiterated its support for all regional efforts that protect business continuity, promote peaceful engagement and encourage robust intra-Asean economic cooperation. "MEF looks forward to continued stability in the region and encourages all parties to sustain this momentum towards lasting peace and mutual prosperity. Yesterday, Cambodia and Thailand agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire amid an ongoing border conflict. The announcement followed a special meeting involving Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, hosted by Anwar in his capacity as Asean chair. The ceasefire took effect starting midnight on July 28.
Focus Malaysia
16 minutes ago
- Focus Malaysia
Amid trust deficit at home, PMX gets a bouquet for settling Thai-Cambodia border conflict
PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been experiencing a trust deficit in domestic politics with a slew of controversial policies drawing strong criticism from ordinary Malaysians, not least the implementation of an unpopular SST (Sales and Services Tax) expansion. Saturday's (July 26) Turun Anwar rally saw an estimated 18,000 disgruntled Malaysians – detractors claim that the figure should run into hundreds of thousands – took part in a peaceful march to voice their displeasure at PMX's leadership. However, in his role as a diplomat, in particular the 2025 ASEAN chairman, PMX seems to have scored some brownie points. Announcing the breakthrough on his Facebook page, PMX said disputing parties Cambodia and Thailand had agreed to a ceasefire from midnight of July 28. Clashes between Cambodian and Thai troops have erupted intermittently since May 28 with a fatal skirmish near the Preah Vihear area triggering renewed tensions. The situation escalated further on July 24, leading to several days of armed conflict. The ceasefire agreement which took effect at midnight followed a nearly two-and-a-half-hour meeting between Hun Manet and Phumtham at Anwar's official residence in Putrajaya yesterday (July 28). It was the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since tensions escalated along their shared border. The US co-organised the meeting while China participated as an observer. Also present were US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard Kagan and Chinese Ambassador Ouyang Yujing. As ASEAN chair, Malaysia is expected to coordinate the formation of an observer team to monitor compliance with the ceasefire. As reported in news portal Scoop, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington applauds the ceasefire declaration and is 'grateful to Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim for his leadership and for hosting the talks'. He stressed the importance of both parties fully honouring their commitments and confirmed continued US engagement in the Malaysian-led peace process. Leaders of both Thailand and Cambodia also praised Anwar's role in mediating the ceasefire. The Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman's post has fetched some 20K likes, 2.3K comments and 2.1K shares at the time of writing with plenty of positive feedback and praises – both from Cambodians and Malaysians alike – highlighting that there are aspects of his leadership that still find favour. One commenter acknowledged that PMX was far from perfect but his efforts in instigating a ceasefire was to be applauded. He argued that those who criticise the 77-year-old simply did not know the hardships of war. Others pointed out that the eyes of the world were on Malaysia, keenly observing the mediation process. On this account, PMX seems to have garnered positive feedback in his role as ASEAN chair. Yes, PMX has done well practising the art of international diplomacy. For his own sake, it is hoped that PMX can display such leadership and decisiveness when dealing with domestic issues. His political survival very much depends on it. While such high-profile mediations may offer positive headlines, it is domestic affairs that will determine if he is to be given a further mandate by the Malaysian electorate. In the meantime, the positive media coverage is a welcome respite after the weekend's rally, underlining that in international affairs Malaysia seems to have got the right man for the job. – July 29, 2025
Malaysian Reserve
2 hours ago
- Malaysian Reserve
Sim: AI creates, not replaces jobs in Malaysia
by SHAUQI WAHAB ARTIFICIAL intelligence (AI) is not taking jobs away from Malaysians but instead is transforming the job market by introducing new roles and reshaping existing ones, according to Human Resources Minister Steven Sim. Speaking after officiating the 52nd ARTDO International Conference, he said the public must move past the misconception that AI will lead to widespread job losses. 'We must move away from the fear that AI is here to take away jobs. AI is transforming jobs, not eliminating them. Those who adapt and upskill will find more opportunities, not fewer,' he said. Sim highlighted findings from a national labour market study commissioned by his ministry late last year. The study, which gathered input from key industry players across 10 major economic sectors, revealed that up to 60% of employers believe AI will create new job opportunities — especially in roles that require advanced digital skills. 'AI is changing how we work, not eliminating the need for work itself. The question is not whether AI will take over, but whether we are preparing Malaysians to work with AI,' he added. In response to these changes, the ministry has stepped up efforts to boost upskilling and reskilling through platforms like MyMahir, a national skills-matching portal. Over 33 government-run industrial training institutes, along with private sector training providers, are now offering courses in AI and digital literacy. These courses are designed to prepare workers for an increasingly automated economy, equipping them with the skills needed to shift into higher-value roles. 'AI literacy must become mainstream. Not everyone will become an AI engineer, but basic familiarity with how AI works will soon be essential across nearly every profession,' he said. Sim also stressed the importance of embedding AI ethics and governance in public education. He said the ministry is committed to ensuring AI is deployed responsibly, not just effectively. During the recent National Training Week, between 40% and 50% of the courses included AI components, covering not only technical training but also modules on ethical use, data protection and digital responsibility. 'We want Malaysians to not only use AI but to use it responsibly. We are building not just a skilled workforce but a trusted digital society,' he added.
