KUCHING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent comments on striking a balance between the current needs of Employees Provident Fund (EPF) depositors as well as their future survival received an overall positive reaction from the public.
At the same time, however, some felt that a requirement should be in place towards the EPF depositors before making another withdrawal, should there be one in the near future, while others felt that it is burdensome to do so.
New Sarawak Tribune spoke with some of them on the matter.
AZHARUL AZMIR KAMARULZAMAN, 38
FILM PRODUCER
“I do agree with the statement, because we need to understand that this is their savings, and money for their hari tua (retirement). If the depositor withdraws the money, I don’t think they would have anymore in the future once they retire. But it depends on the person, I mean who knows they might need it to survive, given the current economic climate that we are facing right now. As for the requirement, I do think there should be one, but it needs to be discussed first.”
—————————————–
REGINA IBRAHIM, 58
AUTHOR
“Personally I agree and another round of EPF special withdrawal should be allowed, especially to avoid loan or unnecessary debt or credit. Plus, the application should be for necessities only. No age limit should be emphasised.”
—————————————–
NOR FIFI NATASHA FAIRUS, 29
FREELANCE ACTOR
“I agree with the comments but at the same time some are in dire need hence they have no immediate option. I would suggest other options from the government to assist the people so that there is no need for another round of withdrawal. However, should there be another round of the EPF withdrawal, then I hope they do not impose any requirement because the people do not have time to think.”
HAKIM JUNAIDI, 31
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION OFFICER
“I see his decision as a logical, given the current situation. As we are in the recovery phase, priority should for those who need it the most. However, at the end of the day, it is up to the depositors if they want to withdraw the money. Plus targeted withdrawal should also be considered by the government.”
JOANNA JULAN, 29
ADMIN EXECUTIVE
“I do agree with his comments, but at the same time another round of withdrawal is a bad idea, but if it is allowed then, there should be no requirement imposed towards the depositor.”
VINCENT MALLANG ALFRED, 30
PERSONAL TRAINER
“Personally for me, if another round of EPF special withdrawal is allowed then, I agree because given by the economic situation at the moment that has not been fully recovered, but there must be rules. The depositor should state their financial status first before they are allowed to do so.”
MUHAMMAD HASBULLAH AZWAN HAMZAH, 27
PROPERTY AGENT
“Yes, I am with him on the issue, but we also need to consider the situation of the depositor and if they ever needed to do the withdrawal then, might as well just stick to the requirement as it is before.”
