Hardcore poor face bleak times

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's government has set its sights on reducing the problem of hardcore poverty. It will be an uphill battle, writes K.S. USHA DEVI, who looked at the situation of some hardcore poor families in Kedah. 

AS she welcomes the unexpected visitors to her house with typical kampung courtesy, it is apparent that Salmah Ghazali is embarrassed by her living conditions. She constantly apologises for not offering any drinks, stating simply: “Hidup ni susah (Life is difficult).”