A CALL made by Sunday Star to the Talian Nur =
hotline
indicated that officers manning it take their job seriously.
The officer at the other end of the line was helpful =
and
well-informed on the procedures as well as the types of aid the public are
eligible for.
She insisted on getting more details after being told=
of
a “family” with three school-going children, a jobless father a=
nd a
mother who works as a cleaner.
Despite this reporter wishing to remain anonymous, the
officer pressed for a full name. She then proceeded to ask reasons why the
husband was not working, if the children were schooling, and where they
resided.
Subsequently, she went on to explain the department's
procedure and what they would do once a case was reported and which was the
nearest welfare office to the family's place of residence.
On registering, the family would have to fill up a fo=
rm.
The officers would then follow up with a home visit to assess the family's
financial situation.
When asked if those who needed help could not speak
English or Bahasa
She explained that the family would probably be entit=
led
to receive aid for each of the three children, as well as some general aid =
(bantuan am).
However, she did not say how or when exactly they wou=
ld
receive aid but estimated it to take about one or two months.
Upon concluding the call, the courteous and patient
attitude of the officer left a positive impression that the Social Welfare
Department is committed to helping those in need. – JOSEPH LOH<=
/i>