KUCHING: The delays in processing the Kenyalang Gold Card (KGC) applications are largely due to inaccuracies in the information provided by applicants, says Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
Fatimah clarified that the approval process for KGC applications typically takes about a month, provided the forms are completed correctly and meet the stated requirements.
“One of the reasons for the delay in approval is that the name in the form does not match the name on the identification card, and some phone numbers have changed and are unknown. All of this takes time to rectify.
“However, we are doing our best to resolve this issue before the end of this year (for KGC applications 2024), and the cards will then be sent to all the Welfare Offices in the respective districts, where applicants can check them there.
“To inform you, the approval process for KGC applications actually only takes about a month and does not take long before being sent to the district welfare offices.”
Fatimah was speaking to reporters at the opening ceremony of the Senior Citizens Empowerment Programme: Addressing Dementia at the Kuching Community Social Support Centre (CSSC), Friday (Nov 22).
Earlier, she revealed that senior citizens with KGC will receive discounts ranging from 5 per cent to 20 per cent when accessing services and necessities from several private sectors.
These discounts cover health services, private clinics, private hospitals and supermarkets.
“In addition, optical stores, Anmas dental clinics, transportation services, and funeral home services are also included in the discounts offered.
“This discount is available to applicants regardless of race, religion, or socioeconomic status of the elderly recipients.”
Furthermore, she noted that the Sarawak government also provides the Death Assistance Fund (BIK) amounting to RM1,800 to assist with funeral arrangements for the beneficiaries of the KGC.
“In relation to this, the Senior Citizens Health Benefits (SCHB) amounting to RM500 per year was introduced on July 22, 2024, to allow senior citizens to visit private clinics or hospitals.
“However, recipients must meet the eligibility requirements, which include a household income of less than RM7,000.”
Fatimah added that if the recipient’s name is not on the list, they can present their identification card to be checked by the panel of private or government clinics and hospitals.
