Increase In BSH Shows Govt's Concern For MAF Veterans

KUANTAN, Aug 22 (Bernama) -- The increase in the Bantuan Sara Hidup (BSH) for non-pensionable veterans of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) signifies the government's recognition of their service and concern for their needs.

Former Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) personnel Rashid Awang, 62, expressed his gratitude to the government for remembering veterans like him, despite having left the service nearly 30 years ago.

The father of six, who resides in Tanah Putih Baru here, also appreciated the government's efforts not to overlook non-pensionable MAF veterans and believes that the allowance should be wisely utilised as they enter their twilight years.

bootstrap slideshow

Starting his service in 1981 and retiring in 1994 with the rank of First Seaman, Rashid did not expect the increase in the household living aid, considering it an unexpected blessing.

“After leaving the service, I only did part-time work, and since then, BSH has been my main source of income for daily expenses. I do not want to burden or depend on my children, as they have their own families to take care of,” he told Bernama when contacted.

During the 19th edition of Majlis Amanat Perdana Perkhidmatan Awam (MAPPA) last Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that BSH for non-pensionable MAF veterans would be increased from RM300 to RM500 per month for those who qualify.

Meanwhile, Sayed Mohd Shaperi Tuan Sahid, 62, expressed his gratitude for the government's consideration of veterans like him and plans to use the allowance wisely to sustain his livelihood.

The former RMN personnel said the additional BSH funds could be saved for emergencies.

Former army personnel Yahaya Ahmad, 69, said the aid would ease their financial burden.

-- BERNAMA