BY ABIDGAIL MERTA GANGGANG & LILIANA SHERYN
KUCHING: People have welcomed the government move to include eyewear in its Payung Rahmah initiative.
The extension of coverage via the Rahmah Eyeglass Package was announced by Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Salahuddin Ayub recently.
The initiative that makes eyewear more affordable or accessible for the lower-income group is expected to improve the quality of life for individuals with vision problems.
A random poll showed people applauding the aid which recognises the importance of accessible eyewear.
Ganggang Latit, 49, Senior Executive
It’s important we have initiatives that focus on reducing the cost of living and providing essential services like eyewear can be seen as a positive step toward addressing socioeconomic disparities and promoting equality.
By reducing the financial burden of obtaining eyewear, it can help individuals enhance their vision and daily productivity.
Marcella Wee Wilbur, 24, Self-employed
The Payung Rahmah initiative will be useful for the B40 community in purchasing eyewear which can be costly.
A single purchase of the frame itself can cost up to RM99, the cheapest, which can be a great inconvenience. The cost of eyeglasses, including frames, lenses, and vision tests, can be a burden on their already tight budgets.
Smith Meribin Tony Joe, 19, Student
Personally, I don’t use glasses. However,I witnessed my friends spending almost RM200 to change their eyeglasses. This is very disappointing because not everyone has the luxury to buy or change their glasses when they need to.
This initiative will help a lot of under-financed families, especially students to relieve their budget on eyewear.
Christine Wong, 26, Admin Executive
As someone with eyesight problems, to get my personalised spectacles done, it cost RM400 alone for the lens, though the amount spent was considered worth spending in the long-run to correct my vision.
The initiative itself is pretty helpful for those in need, but probably needs to take into account the general market price of the products too.
Farsha Peter Rus, 24, Student
Previously, I had to use my old spectacles despite the fact that my myopia was worsening since I couldn’t afford to pay for new spectacles.
The Rahmah Eyeglass Package initiative significantly lessened my financial load when it came to purchasing new spectacles. Usually, I spend between RM250 and RM400 on eyewear.
