KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh has claimed that her remarks during the launch of the Sara Rahmah box programme were manipulated by certain quarters.
Fuziah said the reports were made with malicious intent and failed to accurately reflect the government’s efforts to assist the people.
“I am disheartened by the media report, which does not correctly portray the government’s initiatives.
“Media outlets should act responsibly and consider the full context of a minister’s speech to avoid offending the public or misrepresenting the overall message.
“I suspect parties are acting in bad faith (mala fide), as my statement has been manipulated,” she said today.
Previously, a news portal reported Fuziah as saying that while RM100 may seem like a small amount to some, it could be sufficient to cover a month’s worth of basic needs for the elderly.
The report sparked backlash on social media, with many users criticising Fuziah and claiming she lacked understanding of the public’s financial struggles.
Clarifying her remarks, Fuziah said the statement had been taken out of context and did not reflect the actual message she intended to convey.
“I wish to clarify that my statement was referring to the RM100 Sara contribution provided by the government to help the people purchase essential goods.
“Typically, the items offered under the Sara programme — such as a sack of rice, cooking oil, sugar, flour, a tray of eggs, soy sauce, and other basics — may be sufficient to last nearly a month for some elderly individuals with minimal dependents.
“However, this depends on their specific needs, especially if they have more than two dependents,” she explained.
Fuziah added that the government has always been attentive to the people’s financial burdens and remains committed to easing their cost of living.
“The Madani government will continue taking sustainable steps to ensure the welfare and well-being of the people are always protected,” she said.
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