Hard times for seniors

The old and homeless people in Pudu survive on free meals given out by charities and religious institutions. — Photos: AZMAN GHANI/The Star

THE deaths of two elderly women caught in a mad scramble for free food coupons on Monday have shocked the nation, but the incident should also serve as a wake-up call on the plight of seniors struggling to survive in the capital city.

The victims, Cheong Poh, 85, and Law Ion Nang, 78, died after collapsing in the crush of senior citizens trying to register for a charity buffet on Feb 11 in conjunction with Chinese New Year. Two others were also injured in the melee.