Kuching: Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) State Committee member Sim Kiat Leng has called on the Sarawak Ministry of Women, Children and Community Welfare Development to launch an immediate investigation into alleged irregularities and even counterfeiting related to the Kenyalang Gold Card scheme.
Sim stated in response to a clarification announcement published by the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Kuching Branch, which claimed that certain SUPP members, including a former election candidate and his team, were involved in improper practices concerning the application and issuance of the Kenyalang Gold Card.
“The Kenyalang Gold Card is a state government initiative aimed at providing essential welfare benefits to Sarawak’s senior citizens. Any misuse or counterfeiting of this card is not only a betrayal of public trust but could also amount to fraud,” said Sim.
He emphasised that this matter concerns the integrity of the individuals involved and stressed that the allegations originated from within the SUPP itself, not from opposition parties.
“This is not an allegation by the Opposition. It is an internal accusation within SUPP that involves the counterfeiting of a government-issued instrument,” he said.
Sim urged Minister Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah to take swift action to uncover the truth, stating that the Kenyalang Gold Card should never be politicised or manipulated at the expense of Sarawak’s elderly population.
The Kenyalang Gold Card provides senior citizens with access to discounts and rebates on necessities such as food, groceries, medical services, transportation, and communications services, as well as death benefits.
Sim, who is also the special assistant to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, encouraged affected individuals to verify the authenticity of their cards with the relevant departments and to seek assistance if they encounter discrepancies.
“This card represents the state’s commitment to our elderly citizens. No one should misuse it for personal or political gain,” he concluded.
