24-2-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) The claims made by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim that extreme poverty no longer exists in Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and Negeri Sembilan have been met with skepticism by aid workers and activists on the ground. Despite the government’s assertion of 100% success in eradicating hardcore poverty in these areas, individuals like Kuan Chee Heng, a social activist and founder of the NGO Uncle Kentang, continue to receive numerous requests for assistance.
Kuan Chee Heng, commonly known as Uncle Kentang, is inundated with calls on his four phones, all seeking his help. These requests range from financial aid for funeral expenses, medical emergencies, and utility bill payments to basic necessities like groceries and rice. According to Kuan, the number of cases seems to be increasing day by day, painting a different picture from the government’s claims of poverty eradication.
The definition of hardcore poverty in Malaysia is based on income levels. The Economy Minister, Rafizi Ramli, previously stated that individuals earning less than RM1,169 fall into this category, while those with an income below RM2,208 are considered to be in absolute poverty. However, aid workers argue that the reality on the ground contradicts the government’s narrative. William Cheah from Kembara Kitchen, a social enterprise providing meals and assistance to the poor, emphasized that the high demand for aid demonstrates the persistence of poverty in the country.
Kuala Lumpur, with a population of approximately two million, is home to many low-income earners living in public housing projects, such as the People’s Housing Programme (PPR). These cramped living conditions further exacerbate the challenges faced by impoverished individuals and families. Aid workers also highlight the impact of rising inflation and the increasing cost of basic goods, making it difficult for low-income individuals to make ends meet.
In response to Anwar’s claims, Dr. Madeline Berma from the Academy of Sciences Malaysia argues that poverty should be measured using a multidimensional approach, considering factors like health, education, and living conditions. While income is an essential aspect, relying solely on it may provide a limited understanding of the issue. Researchers advocate for a more comprehensive index that captures the various dimensions of poverty, even if it is more challenging to measure and collect data for such an index.
Former minister Khairy Jamaluddin echoed these sentiments, stating that poverty extends beyond income and should be viewed through a multidimensional lens. He emphasized the need to acknowledge the complexity of poverty while still recognizing the progress made in terms of income levels. Meanwhile, the Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM) chairperson, Dr. Jeyakumar Jeyaraj, criticized the government’s approach, suggesting that defining poverty based on a cutoff point neglects the struggles faced by families whose incomes fall slightly above the poverty line.
While the government’s efforts to alleviate poverty through cash assistance programs and the implementation of a minimum wage are commendable, aid workers like Kuan Chee Heng continue to witness the harsh realities faced by impoverished individuals. They emphasize the importance of addressing the multidimensional nature of poverty and ensuring that individuals can sustain their families with dignity. Ultimately, the goal is for NGOs and aid workers to become obsolete, indicating that the government has successfully fulfilled its responsibilities in uplifting the most vulnerable members of society.
