MB: Pahang achieves zero hardcore poverty, overall poverty drops 30pct

KUALA LUMPUR: Pahang state has officially eliminated hardcore poverty, with the number of households classified as such dropping to zero after undergoing economic assistance and interventions over the past two years, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail. The state's overall poverty rate has decreased by 30 per cent, with 4,263 out of 14,210 poor household heads moving out of the poverty category as of June 5.

Wan Rosdy emphasized that while the achievement is significant, the fight against poverty in Pahang is not yet over and calls for continued monitoring, intervention, and assistance. Factors contributing to the success include targeted initiatives, government efforts, and changes in household income and size.

The Menteri Besar clarified that the eradication of hardcore poverty does not imply that the state has achieved absolute poverty eradication. He stressed that the state will continue to work with various stakeholders to ensure that families still classified as poor in the national poverty database receive assistance in line with their needs.

Wan Rosdy highlighted that the Malaysian government's poverty line is defined by per capita income levels, with hardcore poverty set at RM372 a month in urban areas and RM345 in rural areas, while poverty is defined as a per capita income below RM790 a month in urban areas and RM714 in rural areas. He added that household status can change due to various factors, including income fluctuations, employment changes, and household size adjustments.