By Siti Rohaizah Zainal
SHAH ALAM, Nov 19 — Approximately 5,645 individuals have received business equipment through the Poverty Eradication Blueprint Equipment Assistance programme since its introduction in 2016.
State executive councillor for human resources and poverty eradication V. Papparaidu said over RM21.1 million has been spent during this period to help small traders improve their economic standing.
He said the Selangor Indian Entrepreneurs Equipment Assistance Programme (i-Seed) has benefitted 410 recipients with an allocation of RM2.31 million since its launch in 2021.
“Through these two programmes, many individuals have managed to increase their income through economic activities including agriculture, small businesses, and livestock farming.
“These programmes also contribute to social development by reducing poverty gaps, increasing income, and enhancing community wellbeing,” Papparaidu said during the Selangor State Legislative Assembly session today.
Responding to Pandamaran state assemblyman Tony Leong Tuck Chee's supplementary question, he reminded the aid recipients to not sell the equipment indiscriminately.
Starting this term, every piece of equipment provided will be labelled with a sticker, and recipients who breach the terms will face legal action.
“This equipment is funded through taxpayers’ money and should be used by the recipients themselves to improve their economic circumstances,” Papparaidu said.
The Poverty Eradication Blueprint Equipment Assistance programme was introduced to enhance the economic status of small traders by providing equipment or machinery assistance.
On Friday (November 15), Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said the programme will continue next year with a RM1.5 million allocation.
