Malaysian Government Allocated US$10 Million to Improve Welfare of Ex-Servicemen

TEMERLOH (Pahang,Malaysia), June 25 (Bernama) -- The government has allocated RM32 million (US$10 million) to help ex-servicemen improve their lifestyle after completing their service. Malaysian Ex-Servicemen's Association (PBTM) president Muhammad Abdul Ghani said this included carrying out skills training, business, entrepreneurship, farming and welfare programmes. "The government is committed to rewarding them for their contributions to the country through business opportunities, land schemes and ensuring their welfare," he told Bernama here on Monday. He also urged over 100,000 ex-servicemen, who have not registered with the association, to do so because they can receive various forms of assistance and incentives. "So far only 149,000 ex-servicemen have become members with 236 association branches," he added. Muhammad said the government would not allow them to face hardship after their service, but instead help them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and steady income. "It will be difficult for the government to reach ex-servicemen who are not part of the association, especially since opportunities are given by the government through the association and cooperative," he said. -- BERNAMA