EACH time there is an announcement by the government over an aid package for the people, there are bound to be those who are quick to criticise and ridicule it.

It is understandable since those concerned are likely from the upper-middle class group who have nothing better to do than sit in their cozy, air-conditioned rooms and condemn others.

However, for people like me and I am sure many others, we eagerly wait for such announcements as these aid packages are all we have left to hope for.

The situation has reached ground zero and there is nowhere left to turn to.

Pointing fingers at the government is not going to resolve anything – just look at ourselves – what have we done to curb the spread of Covid-19?

Till today, I regularly read about people flouting the standard operating procedure, not to mention the recent Hari Raya balik kampung spree.

This, despite warnings from the government not to return home.

I know many are critical about allowing contributors to withdraw from the EPF, saying there will be nothing left for our golden years.

But let me tell you something – unless you are going to feed us right now, keep your mouths shut.

At this point, who cares about our old age when we cannot even feed ourselves right now?

Some of us can barely make it to tomorrow, let alone think about our old age.

For me personally, and I am sure for thousands more, we are truly grateful for the i-Citra withdrawals as that will give us some breathing space.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the government for this scheme and whatever else food aid to those affected.

Every little bit goes a long way these days and we are truly grateful. – June 29, 2021.

* Zainuddin Idris reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.