PBB Youth in a statement said the Sarawak government puts in effort in providing the best platform so that their business is not affected.
KUCHING (May 15): Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Youth today slammed Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen’s claim that the state is withholding Covid-19 aid until closer to the state election.
In a statement, it said Chong’s claims was merely political rhetoric and does not reflect the reality as the state government always help small traders and giving out aids to those affected by the pandemic.
“This can been seen through the various aids given out like Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang (BKSS). There’s also aid from the federal government like Prihatin, Penjana and Pemerkasa. This proves the government listens to the people and needs.”
“With the Covid-19 situation dynamics, there will be further need of aid, and we are sure this will be considered by the state government in ensuring the local economy movement,” it said.
According to a news report on an online portal on Thursday, Chong said that the aid was provided to hawkers and the elderly, and the delay has led to many businesses had been operating at a loss and had dug into their reserves to tide themselves over during the past one year.
“DAP and Chong should not play politics by giving out such statements which paint the government as not caring on the people’s welfare,” said the statement.
Realising the need of small and medium enterprises, micro entrepreneurs, hawkers and traders to earn income, the statement said the state government puts in effort in providing the best platform so that their business is not affected.
This was shown in its stance to continue the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) and not declaring a Movement Control Order (MCO) like in Peninsular Malaysia, it added.
“Despite the stringent standard operating procedures by the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee, traders and hawkers are still allowed to operate.
“This is important, especially in ensuring the economic recovery post Covid-19,” said PBB Youth.