What prevents needy households from registering for federal electricity aid?

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Needy Households Face Registration Hurdles for Electricity Subsidy

A significant number of eligible households, totalling 142,200, have yet to register for the federal monthly electricity subsidy of RM40. This low registration rate is primarily due to a lack of awareness regarding the registration process within the eKasih system, which serves as the national database for poverty eradication initiatives. The targeted number of heads of households (KIR) for this aid was 208,800, but only 66,600 have successfully registered and received the subsidy to date.
Lack of Awareness Regarding eKasih Registration

Many of the 142,200 eligible heads of households are unaware of the necessary steps to register for the electricity subsidy. The eKasih system, designed to streamline poverty alleviation programmes, requires heads of households to formally register to receive this specific benefit. This administrative barrier has resulted in a substantial gap between the number of households identified as needing assistance and those who have actually enrolled in the programme.
Issues with Electricity Account Ownership

A key obstacle preventing registration is the discrepancy in electricity account ownership. In numerous cases, the head of the household does not possess the electricity bill account number because it is registered under another family member's name. Furthermore, individuals residing in rented accommodations often face difficulties as the electricity account is typically registered under the name of the property owner, not the tenant.
Limited Knowledge of Subsidy Availability and Channels

Beyond the direct registration process, there appears to be a broader lack of information about the subsidy itself and how to ascertain eligibility. The government has allocated RM140 million for this scheme, aimed at supporting the hardcore poor. However, many eligible individuals may not be aware of how to check if they qualify or where to seek assistance, contributing to the under-registration.
Available Channels for Checking Eligibility

For those seeking to confirm their eligibility for the electricity subsidy, several channels are available. They can visit the MESTECC portal or contact the My Government Call Center (MyGCC) at 03-8000 8000. Additionally, households can reach out to their respective electricity providers for assistance. These include Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) at 1-300-88-5454, Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) at 088-515000 or 15454, and Sarawak Energy Berhad at 1-300-88-3111.

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What prevents needy households from registering for federal electricity aid?

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