KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians might be left cash-strapped during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays as automatic teller machines (ATM) in several parts of the country are reportedly running out of cash.
The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association (Fomca) president Datuk Dr Marimuthu Nadason who highlighted the matter, urged Bank Negara to direct all banks to replenish their ATM machines with cash.
"Since the online system and debit card services of several major banks were disrupted this week, many people turned to ATM machines for cash.
"However, many returned home frustrated because the ATM machines were reportedly out of cash.
"Fomca has been receiving a lot of such complaints over the last few days, especially from consumers in small towns and rural areas.
"Bank Negara must instruct banks to quickly resolve this matter. Otherwise, people will be stranded without cash during the holidays.
"If online transactions get disrupted again, people will not have enough money to buy basic necessities or seek medical care during the break," he told the New Straits Times.
Meanwhile, social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye called on banks to swiftly mobilise teams to survey the cash levels in their respective ATM machines.
"People need cash in hands during the festive season, especially since many are heading back to their hometowns to celebrate Hari Raya with their loved ones, after two years.
"With banks closed during the holidays, ATM is the only option left for people to withdraw money for urgent use.
"As such, banks need to respond to consumers' complaints and explain why their ATM are running out of cash. They should have anticipated more people making withdrawals, and subsequently prepare enough cash in their ATM.
"Do not subject the people to such inconveniences," he said.
From Saturday onwards, Malaysians will enjoy a five-day long holiday, including for Labour Day on May 1 and May 2 and Hari Raya Aidilfitri that falls on May 3 and May 4.