KUCHING: Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) state committee member Sim Kiat Leng has urged the Ministry of Women, Children and Community Welfare Development to conduct an immediate investigation into alleged misuse and counterfeiting of the Kenyalang Gold Card, following a recent public clarification by the Kuching Branch of the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP).
Sim expressed regret over what he described as serious violations involving the state-issued Kenyalang Gold Card, which was introduced to offer welfare benefits to senior citizens in Sarawak. These benefits include discounts and rebates on essentials such as food, groceries, healthcare, communication services, transportation, and even death benefits.
He was responding to a statement from SUPP Kuching Branch, which alleged that some party members, including a former election candidate and his team, had engaged in improper practices in the application and issuance of the Kenyalang Gold Card, including counterfeiting the cards.
“This is a matter that goes to the integrity and honesty of the person or team involved. It could even amount to fraud against the public,” Sim said.
“I call on Sarawak Women, Children and Community Development Minister YB Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah and her department to conduct an immediate investigation and find out the truth of the matter,” he added.
Sim pointed out that the issue was not raised by the Opposition, but rather was an internal allegation within SUPP itself, and involved the counterfeiting of a government-issued document.
Sim added that the Kenyalang Gold Card represents the Sarawak government’s commitment to the welfare of senior citizens and should not be politicised or used in ways that undermine the rights of the elderly.
He further urged those affected to verify their cards with the relevant departments or seek help if they have doubts, in order to protect their rights.
By Connie Chieng