Sobering data on the poor in Penang

OVER 60% of low-income households in Penang have reported having no savings from their monthly income as the double combinations of the pandemic and its ensuing rising living costs begun to bite into their wallets.

Despite the state registering impressive growth numbers since emerging from Covid – 19 in 2022, including record high foreign direct investments, a report commissioned by both Penang and the United Nations’ body – UNICEF illustrated that families continue to be living on the edge following the transition of the pandemic to an endemic phase.

And the trend continues due to rising living costs which is also believed due to wages which do not commensurate with the current living standards, the report indicated.

Heads of households aged 40-54 faced a 53% higher chance of unemployment, which increased to 87% for those aged 55-64, compared to heads of households aged 15-39.

Another significant finding was that eggs replaced meat as the primary protein source, with a 47% decline in meat consumption in 2002, as compared to pre-pandemic levels.

The report was conducted by the public think tank – Penang Institute under its history and regional studies programme, which is headed by Dr Beh May Ting and assisted by
Yeong Pey Jung

The survey involved a total of 632 low income households across all five districts in Penang during the first phase followed by interviews and group discussions residents in PPR Sungai Pinang, PPR Taman Manggis, PPR Mak Mandin and PPR Desa Wawasan.

Another significant finding was the depressive nature of the low income group is symbolised by the widespread littering in their neighbourhoods.

The report is seen as one of the most significant one to have emerged following the massive impact Covid – 19 had on the lives of Penangites. particularly the working class.

Both Beh and Yeong presented their findings to a wide – eyed audience, which included Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who had called for proactive solutions to the plight of the new impoverished families.

Also in attendance were Penang Social Development, Welfare and non – Islamic religious affairs committee chairperson Lim Siew Khim, Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao Leung and George Town Lord Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, as well as the institute’s executive director Datuk Dr Ooi Kee Beng.

UNICEF was represented by its Malaysian representative Robert Gass, chief of social policy Juanita Vasquez and social policy officer Muhammad Farqani Mohd Noor.

Earlier, Lim, who was briefed about the report, said that Penang was committed towards supporting the low income families while ensuring equitable income for all.

“We place families as the cornerstone of our society, and safeguarding their welfare and well-being has always been a priority for the current administration. During the pandemic, the state government, along with the Federal government, provided financial assistance to families and businesses in need.”

Lim, who is also the Sungai Pinang assemblyman, said it highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions.

“We need to go beyond short-term relief and create policies that support long-term stability for low-income families. By empowering these families with the tools and resources they need, we can break the cycle of poverty and build a stronger, more resilient community,” she added.

Gooi called for more synergy to take place between the state and federal agencies to combat the poverty cycle.

The comprehensive report can be sourced online here .

It is part of the UNICEF’s global finding on families living on the edge.