Melaka polls: BN-PN unveils cradle-to-grave welfare measures

In Melaka, a coalition of the Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional parties unveiled an election manifesto packed with a series of welfare measures. These initiatives aim to provide financial support and assistance to residents throughout their lives, from birth to the end of their days.

The manifesto states that newborns will receive a one-time deposit into the National Education Savings Scheme starting in 2027. Primary school children will get help with transportation to attend Quran and basic education classes, while secondary students preparing for Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) exams will receive free tuition.

For young adults joining the workforce, the coalition promises one-time technical training grants for those from the bottom 40% income bracket (B40) who enroll in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs. The plan includes creating 25,000 job opportunities. Newlyweds earning less than RM3,500 a month will receive a one-time cash grant, and senior citizens will continue to receive welfare aid.

Ab Rauf Yusoh, chairman of Melaka BN, emphasized that social welfare should encompass the entire life cycle of individuals. He argued that public welfare should not be limited to isolated, one-off benefits but should be a continuous commitment throughout every stage of life. The manifesto also includes provision for state-funded funeral assistance, ensuring that even in the final stages of life, the deceased will receive proper care and respect.