IPOH, The Sejahtera Sosial One Stop Centre (OSC), inspired by the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan, serves as a crucial platform for eradicating hardcore poverty in the state. State Women, Family, Social Welfare, Cooperatives and Entrepreneur Development Committee chairman Datuk Salbiah Mohamed, highlighted its effectiveness, citing e-Kasih data showing a more than 15 per cent drop in the number of heads of households (KIRs) categorised as hardcore poor within a year. 'From February 2022 to February 2023, a total of 9,402 KIRs were recorded as being on the hardcore poverty line. The number dropped to 8,128 KIRs from February 2023 to February 2024,' she said to Bernama recently. Salbiah emphasised that the OSC plays a pivotal role alongside annual screening programmes in poverty eradication efforts. She explained that the programme, launched on Nov 11 last year, focuses on providing financial aid, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses, job matching services, advisory support, and other i nitiatives aimed at enhancing the skills and livelihoods of households in need. Salbiah added that all relevant federal and state departments and agencies are actively involved to ensure comprehensive assistance for the target groups. 'So far, the OSC has been conducted three times: in the Manjung district on Nov 11, 2023, with 1,500 participants; in Taiping on Feb 24, 2024, involving 1,700 participants; and most recently on June 2 in Gerik, attended by over 2,000 participants,' she noted. 'Participants from each district receive training, monthly assistance, and various incentives from related agencies. With their support, I believe this programme can make significant strides, aligning with the Eradication of Hardcore Poverty 2025 agenda under the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan,' she said. Regarding participant feedback, Salbiah, also the Temenggor assemblywoman, highlighted the encouraging response, noting it raises awareness and fosters commitment to life-changing opportunities. 'When these platforms are p rovided and our target groups engage with the opportunities offered, it positively impacts their lives. It also underscores the government's dedication to assisting them," she added. She also urged participants to stay committed to their endeavours and persevere, emphasising that achieving success takes time and effort. 'Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad often emphasises that while the government can provide beneficial programmes, true success depends on individuals' efforts to bring about change,' she said. In another development, the Women and Community Development Secretariat (SPW) director Jamilah Zakaria announced the upcoming launch of the 'Gadis Hebat' programme, which aims to empower young women, particularly students from B40 and at-risk families in the state, by enhancing their understanding of women's issues and optimising their abilities in their chosen fields. Jamilah explained that the programme, which will be organised in phases by SPW, will include identity-building activities, work shops, and other suitable programmes tailored for the target groups. 'Last year, we implemented the Perak Women's Basic Sanitary Kit programme (PROKIS) to provide essential sanitary kits and education on menstrual management and women's health. 'This year, with the 'Gadis Hebat', our goal is to identify participants and involve them in short-term workshops to provide exposure and encouragement for their success,' she elaborated. She anticipated over 3,000 participants to join the programme, with support from non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Source: BERNAMA News Agency