PONTIAN: Those who are unable to redeem the RM100 eMadani credit despite being eligible for the programme would be able to make an appeal, says Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.

The Deputy Finance Minister said that the government would soon make an announcement and provide more details on the matter.

"On Wednesday (Dec 6), the ministry held a meeting that was chaired by the Prime Minister where we also discussed the eMadani initiative among other things.

"We will make an announcement soon about eMadani and the appeal as well as provide further details on the matter," he said.

Ahmad Maslan said this in a press conference after visiting the planned site for the Pontian Community College here in Benut.

He said this when asked if the government plans to assist eMadani's eligible recipients who are facing trouble claiming the credit, including senior citizens who may not be well-versed in using ewallet.

To be eligible for the eMadani programme, applicants must be Malaysian citizens aged 21 years or older this year.

In addition, the applicant must receive the Rahmah Cash Aid (STR) based on records as of Nov 7 or earn an annual income of RM100,000 and below based on Inland Revenue Board records as of July 15.

Ahmad Maslan said that priority for the appeals will be given to those who are STR recipients.

"There are some 8.7 million people who are recipients of STR based on the list we have.

"We will compare the numbers with the data obtained on people who have successfully redeemed the eMadani credit to see if there is a significant difference in numbers," he said.

He added that the eMadani programme is part of the government's initiative to encourage a digital economy while also helping boost local small and medium businesses (SMEs).

eMadani credit registration and claims have been open since Monday (Dec 4) and are expected to benefit 10 million people.