KUCHING: The Sarawak government is set to introduce the Kenyalang Gold Card Plus this year as an upgrade to the existing Kenyalang Gold Card (KGC).
Women, Childhood and Community Well-being Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, said the initiative aims to improve healthcare access for senior citizens by reducing waiting times at government hospitals.
Explaining, she said the upgraded card will grant access to medical services at private healthcare facilities, such as Columbia Asia Miri Hospital and Normah Medical Specialist Centre (NMSC).
“This year, we will enhance services for our senior citizens through the Kenyalang Gold Card Plus.
“In principle, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has agreed that healthcare assistance will be provided to Kenyalang Gold cardholders. However, we prioritise the B40 group first.
“Through KGC Plus, we can prioritise providing assistance to senior citizens, especially those in the B40 group, focusing on private healthcare services,” she said.
She said this at the Sejambak Kasih Aidilfitri 2024 programme at Darul Hana Mosque on Saturday (March 16).
The Sarawak government launched the KGC in 2020, which provides various benefits, including discounts and rebates for several services and necessities for senior citizens in Sarawak.
KGC holders are also eligible for the Bereavement Compassionate Assistance (BIK) amounting to RM3,000.
However with KGC Plus, Fatimah said the BIK amount will be reduced and replaced with additional healthcare benefits.
“We will reduce the BIK to RM1,800 because we want to provide it during their lifetime.
“Kenyalang Gold Card Plus holders can visit private clinics. It’s capped at RM300, so when they visit the clinic, they can deduct it directly from that amount. The balance can be used for the next check-up,” she added.
Also present during the event was Deputy Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Abdul Rahman Junaidi.
