SIBU: Thirty-three local residents were assisted in applying for the Sarawak Senior Citizens Health Benefit Scheme (SCHB) following the setting up of the Sibu Parliamentary Service Centre’s mobile service counter in Sungai Bidut, located on the west bank here on Wednesday.
The mobile service counter which ran from 9 am to 12 noon was held at the small noodle shop opposite Fong Hing Restaurant in Sungai Bidut.
According to Irene Wong, special assistant to Sibu Member of Parliament, Oscar Ling Chai Yew, a total of 33 people successfully submitted their applications.
She said there were also a number of those who came to inquire about the status of previous applications.
Wong explained that they have held similar mobile service counters multiple times in rural areas, including the Permai shop area, Paradom, Rantau Panjang, and Sungai Bidut.
“These outreach services are designed to make it more convenient for elderly residents in rural areas, helping them overcome transportation difficulties and mobility issues due to age that prevent them from going into town to handle their applications.
“The SCHB is only open to Malaysian citizens aged 60 and above, who have a “K” on their MyKad, and with a household income below RM7,000 per month. Applicants must bring a photocopy of their identity card,” she stated.
Emphasising that the SCHB is a welfare scheme for senior citizens, she said successful applicants will receive RM500 in annual health assistance, which can be used at private clinics for treatment of common illnesses like colds, fevers, headaches, diarrhea, vomiting, sprains, and minor injuries.
“It also covers dental services such as fillings, extractions, and dentures,” Wong added.
Also present at the event was Ling.
