KUCHING: Financial assistance for mothers in confinement announced by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg recently shows that he cares for the people.
The women’s wing of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is thankful to him for his concern for the people, especially women.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) women’s chief Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the new assistance in addition to the existing Endowment Fund Sarawak (EFS) for newborn Sarawakians is another friendly policy by Abang Johari.
“He is not only concerned about infrastructure development especially in rural areas; fighting for Sarawak rights; charting the way forward for the state’s digital economy; new housing scheme for low income groups, to name a few, but also family matters,” she said.
“This is rightly so because society’s well-being depends on family well-being. My ministry will be in-charge of the implementation of the programme just like EFS.”
Commenting of the same matter, Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) women’s chief Datuk Chiew Yen Chiu said, “I look at the socio-economic aspect and believe that this will create an enabling environment for women to remain in the labour force if they are already working.
“And the financial aid is a great help to the mothers in view of the high costs of living and caring for the newborn,” she said.
She urged all mothers to capitalise on opportunities given or will be given by the state government.
“We thanked our chief minister for his efforts in raising the women’s standard of living,” she said.
Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) women’s chief Kho Teck Wan said the cost of having a child is increasing, and the economy is not good. Therefore it is vital to provide assistance to mothers.
“As women have so many things to worry about after giving birth, a little financial assistance can help the family.
“Some mothers are breadwinners, so I hope the financial assistance will also ensure that mothers and their babies don’t have to compromise on healthcare. A healthy and happy mother will ensure a healthy and happy society,” she said.
