Initiative relevant to eradicate poverty

KUCHING: The People’s Income Initiative (IPR) will remain relevant for eradicating poverty nationwide due to its comprehensive approach, said Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib.

The Deputy Minister of Economy said this initiative encompasses the IPR-Food Entrepreneurs Initiative (IPR-INSAN), IPR-Agricultural Entrepreneurs Initiative (IPR-INTAN), and IPR-Hardcore Poor Eradication Project (IPR-BMT).

The primary objective of the IPR programme is to encourage targeted groups to work and generate sustainable additional income, preventing them from falling back into poverty.

“The main point to emphasise is that the targeted groups are equipped with knowledge and skills.

“Through the implementation of IPR in Negeri Sembilan, the number of hardcore poor has reached zero, proving that this initiative impacts the government’s goal of ending poverty,” she told the Senate today (July 24).

Hanifah also said the Ministry of Economy was implementing capacity building and human capital programmes, along with basic financial management and bookkeeping courses for IPR participants, in strategic collaboration with public universities.

Additionally, the IPR programme creates an ecosystem of supply and demand by providing ready buyers, ensuring that the income of IPR participants nationwide is consistent and sustainable.

In a related development, Hanifah congratulated Senator Datuk Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, on his appointment as the 21st President of the Senate.