Are SSM-registered small traders being unfairly excluded from BSH?

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SSM-Registered Small Traders Face Unfair Exclusion from BSH Handouts

Parti Socialis Malaysia (PSM) argues that the government's decision to cease Bantuan Sara Hidup (BSH) cash handouts for certain lower-income groups, including individuals registered with the Companies Commissions of Malaysia (SSM), is unfair. PSM chairman Dr. Michael Jeyakumar Devaraj highlighted that many SSM-registered individuals are small traders operating market stalls or roadside businesses who earn a modest income of barely RM1,500 per month, and their exclusion from the BSH scheme, which was previously available as Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia, deprives them of essential support.
Concerns Over BSH Cessation for Small Traders

PSM has voiced significant concerns regarding the discontinuation of BSH aid for individuals registered under SSM. Dr. Jeyakumar explained that the government's rationale for this cessation does not adequately consider the financial realities faced by many small-scale entrepreneurs. These individuals, often operating under SSM to formalise their small businesses such as selling vegetables or roti canai, frequently struggle to earn more than RM1,500 monthly. Their exclusion from the BSH scheme, therefore, impacts a group that is genuinely part of the lower-income bracket.
Previous Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia Recipients Affected

Numerous complaints have been received by PSM from individuals who were previously beneficiaries of the Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia (BR1M) scheme but are now deemed ineligible for the new Bantuan Sara Hidup (BSH). This transition has left a segment of the population, including those operating small businesses under SSM, without the financial assistance they had previously relied upon. The party held a protest outside the State Inland Revenue Board office to highlight these issues.
PSM's Understanding and Opposition to Exclusion Criteria

While PSM acknowledges the Finance Ministry's objective to exclude individuals who are not considered poor from the BSH scheme, they strongly object to the exclusion of those who are demonstrably struggling financially. Dr. Jeyakumar stated that PSM would not oppose the exclusion of individuals who own significant assets, such as property exceeding RM500,000 or vehicles with engine capacities above certain thresholds (e.g., cars above 2000cc, motorcycles above 500cc). However, they question the logic of removing aid from those who are already poor and dependent on such financial support.
Call for Review of BSH Standard Operating Procedure

Dr. Michael Jeyakumar has urged Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng to conduct an immediate review of the status of affected individuals, particularly small traders registered under SSM. PSM is calling for a revision of the current standard operating procedure (SOP) for the BSH scheme. This review aims to ensure that the aid reaches those who genuinely need it, preventing the unfair exclusion of vulnerable groups like small-scale entrepreneurs who contribute to the local economy but have limited earning potential.

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Are SSM-registered small traders being unfairly excluded from BSH?

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