KUALA LUMPUR – Hannah Yeoh (Segambut-PH) has taken serious issue with the government’s presumed income for housewives that was set at a measly RM600, saying the rate is a serious insult to women in the country.
The DAP lawmaker was referring to the figure stated in the Housewives’ Social Security Bill 2022, which was tabled for the second reading in the Dewan Rakyat today.
The bill aims to introduce a social security scheme for housewives, with those insured entitled to various disability benefits, survivor’s pension and funeral benefit, among other things.
According to the Third Schedule of the bill, which elaborates on the rates of contribution, a total annual contribution of RM120 (RM10 per month) has been set per housewife, which, it said, is based on the presumed monthly income of RM600.
Debating the proposed legislation, Yeoh said while she supports the government’s intention in protecting women, the figure stated is an affront to housewives.
This is particularly relevant as the government has currently set the minimum wage at RM1,500 per month.
“If you go to coffeeshops, foreigners who prepare drinks can earn up to RM3,000. But for our housewives, our women and mothers, their presumed income is only RM600.
“This amount is insulting. That is why I ask that we defer (this bill), because the words used in the bill is very insulting to their work,” she said today.
Yeoh added that a presumed monthly salary of RM600 would mean that housewives only earn about RM20 a day, equivalent to only two plates of mixed rice for those residing in Kuala Lumpur.
“Imagine working morning, afternoon and night, but you can only buy two plates of rice. This shouldn’t happen.
“If we compare this to cigarettes, one box of Marlboro now is RM17, while Winston costs RM15, but mothers earn only RM20 a day?”
Under the bill, insured housewives can claim up to RM30,000 in benefits if she suffers from permanent disability.
The bill also stipulates that the contributions for registered housewives shall be paid for by husbands, while those who are not married may pay for coverage themselves.
Later in his winding up speech, Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Awang Hashim said it is not the government’s intention to insult any quarters, but explained that the low figure is to ensure a minimal contribution of RM10 a month can be imposed.
“If we set the monthly contribution at RM50 or RM60, might as well they (housewives) take other insurance packages.
“So yes, the (RM600 presumed income) is based on the RM10 contribution, because we don’t want to burden any quarters.”
When asked if an amendment would be made to the wording of the bill to avoid confusion, Awang acknowledged the need to improve the legislation, but said the priority is to pass it in the lower House today.
The bill was later passed in the Dewan Rakyat via a simple voice vote. – The Vibes, July 25, 2022
