Simpang renggam: The fourth phase of the Bantuan Kasih Johor (BKJ) initiative for senior citizens has brought a sense of relief to the elderly in the state, helping them navigate their later years amid limited fixed incomes and rising living costs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, checks at the aid distribution site for the Machap state constituency at the General Operations Force (GOF) parade square in Simpang Renggam found that most recipients were accompanied by family members, with some arriving in wheelchairs. For Taman Perkasa resident Baharudin Abdul Karim, 61, who is wheelchair-bound after suffering a stroke, the assistance was described as a much-needed and meaningful 'bonus'.

Baharudin expressed his intention to share the aid by treating his wife and family to a meal, acknowledging their support since he lost the ability to walk. Similarly, 95-year-old Chong Fatt Ting attended the distribution with her grandchild. Despite her frailty, the Kampung Baru Machap resident did not miss the opportunity to receive the aid, personally handed over by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who is also the constituency's elected representative. Chong plans to share the assistance with her family and neighbors as a gesture of appreciation for their support.

Meanwhile, S. Amutha, 65, from Taman Titiwangsa, noted the importance of the cash aid amid rising living costs. She expressed gratitude and hope for the continuation of the initiative, highlighting its significance for senior citizens impacted by the economic situation. Chu Minitan Kasimun, 69, from Kampung Tengah, who manages diabetes and high blood pressure, shared that the assistance helps ease her expenses for groceries and basic medication.

Onn Hafiz presented RM200 in cash to 7,097 recipients in the Machap state constituency under the fourth phase of the BKJ. The Machap assemblyman stated that the state government has allocated RM61.4 million for the program, benefiting 307,000 senior citizens in recognition of their contributions across Johor. He also mentioned plans to extend assistance to other target groups if the state's revenue continues to grow, aiming for inclusive prosperity across all segments of society.

At the same event, Onn Hafiz announced plans for a special Jualan Kasih Johor (JKJ) sale initiative for GOF personnel and staff of Simpang Renggam Prison in the near future.