GEORGE TOWN, May 16 -- The newly sworn-in Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri, Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, has called for the state's social welfare aid programme, i-Sejahtera, to be continued in a more inclusive and targeted manner.

In his speech officiating the first session of the state legislative assembly today, he said priority should be given to those who genuinely need it.

Meanwhile, he suggested introducing sustainable alternatives such as skills training opportunities and microfinancing aid.

"This method will relieve the state's financial burden while creating more opportunities for the people to be independent and raise their socioeconomic status," he said.

Ramli also commended the state government's efforts in caring for the well-being ...