SHAH ALAM, July 27 — Efforts to eradicate poverty in urban and rural areas must adopt different approaches, as the needs of the two groups differ significantly, said state executive councillor for human resources and poverty eradication Papparaidu Veraman.
Poverty alleviation measures must be implemented in a targeted manner by taking into account the distinct challenges faced by each group.
He said that urban poverty is largely driven by high transportation costs and the rising cost of living, while rural communities require better infrastructure, employment opportunities, and economic development.
"Selangor is a state with a high level of urbanisation, resulting in the majority of poor households being located in urban areas. However, their needs differ from those of rural communities, which require their own approach," Papparaidu told Media Selangor.
To help ease the financial burden of both urban and rural communities, the state government has introduced initiatives such as Bantuan Kehidupan Sejahtera Selangor (BINGKAS), the Smart Sewa scheme, Smart Selangor Bus, and Jom Shopping vouchers.
He added that the Sabak Bernam Area Development (SABDA) initiative, which focuses on agriculture, agrotourism, and infrastructure upgrades, including Internet connectivity, has also been incorporated into the First Selangor Plan (RS-1).
Similarly, the Selangor Poverty Eradication Blueprint Equipment Assistance programme was introduced to empower low-income entrepreneurs by providing them with essential business equipment.
“This assistance has received an encouraging response from B40 entrepreneurs, especially single mothers who need equipment to expand their businesses and increase their income.
“For example, the provision of industrial sewing machines not only helps reduce the cost of renting machines, it also speeds up the production process, thereby improving their businesses,” Papparaidu said.
The state government is also paying close attention to Indian and Malay communities in rural areas, as many residents completed only primary school education.
Limited access to educational institutions in remote areas remains one of the key challenges that must be addressed to improve social mobility among these communities.
He noted that his office has been conducting visits to every district to better understand the needs of Orang Asli communities and identify issues requiring immediate attention.
“I have also instructed all 62 Tok Batin in Selangor to ensure that every child in Orang Asli villages has access to education and does not drop out of the school system.
“Education is the main pathway to breaking the cycle of poverty. Therefore, we want to ensure that every child receives the educational opportunities they deserve,” said Papparaidu.
