KOTA KINABALU: The government has been urged to revise eKasih aid criteria so that disaster victims, such as those affected by fires and floods, receive proper assistance.

Upko Women's chief Mohina Ronnie Sidom said those who lost their homes in disasters struggled to get aid because they were not registered under eKasih, a programme to assist low-income households.

According to records, as of February, 72,058 heads of household in Sabah were classified as poor or hardcore poor under eKasih.

Mohina, who is also Kinabatangan Upko division chief, said a review of the programme’s criteria was needed to ensure that those in genuine need are not excluded.

"When disasters like fires happen, some victims do not receive assistance, including aid for rebuilding or repairing their homes.

"This is because they are not in the eKasih database," she said.

She also called for transparency in implementing the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) People's Friendly Housing Programme, launched this year across all 73 state constituencies, to ensure that those struggling but not listed in eKasih receive support.

"I believe there are many more people in difficult situations owing to disasters, but they are overlooked because they are not in eKasih," she added.

Mohina said addressing the issue needed collaboration between grassroots leaders and government agencies to ensure aid reaches those who need it.