A TOTAL of 1,252 fishermen from the central Seberang Perai and south Seberang Perai districts were on cloud nine yesterday after receiving RM400 one-off payment assistance from the Penang government.
The assistance, known as the ‘Bantuan Pukat’ programme initiated by the state, was meant to assist the fishermen, especially in view of the upcoming Hari Raya celebration.
State Agro-Tech, Food Security, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman Dr Norlela Ariffin noted the rising living cost had greatly affected the livelihood of fishermen.
“This aid can reduce their burden and provide them with the necessary help during this challenging period.
“On top of that, they have also received RM200 assistance from the Federal Government. Hence, they received RM600 in total amount,” she said after distributing the aid to the fishermen at the Land and District Office in Bukit Mertajam.
In Penang, a total of 4,037 licenced fishermen have received their respective aid from the state.
Dr Norlela said this shows the state was committed to looking into their welfare.
“The RM400 may be a small sum, but it shows our sincerity in helping those in need,” she added.
According to Dr Norlela, such a programme has been carried out since 2013.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud