The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDAC) has set up a dedicated hotline service to assist entrepreneurs suffering from mental and emotional distress due to the prolonged lockdown.
Simply named ADU@MEDAC, this move is seen as a crucial support service by MEDAC and its agencies to address concerns on mental health issues that is becoming one of the biggest problems faced by entrepreneurs at the moment.
MEDAC Minister, Datuk Seri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar explained because of the indefinite lockdown, many entrepreneurs are unable to operate their business for almost a year and many are now facing financial hardship.
He said the uncertainties about their financial situation as well as their future, as well as not being able to socialise, have taken a toll on the mental and emotional state of these business operators.
“At MEDAC, we are very concerned of their wellbeing. Aside from offering business assistance and incentives, we feel it is also important for us to help them on the emotional aspect as well. This is why we come up with ADU@MEDAC,” he said.
The ADU@MEDAC hotline, operating from 9 am to 9 pm, will serve as a one stop centre for entrepreneurs who are in distress.
Those who call for advice on business and financial related matters will be channelled to the respective agencies under MEDAC while those with mental related issues will be directed to respective agencies dealing with psycho-social issues such as Talian Kasih and the Covid-19 Psychosocial Support Helpline.
In doing this, the ministry will also be working closely with The National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), agency under Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, as well as Health Ministry.
Entrepreneurs can call ADU@MEDAC at 1-300-88-1020.
-NIAGATIMES
