BANKS need to place more cash in their automated teller machines (ATMs) considering the big demand, especially from the large number of foreign workers employed in the various industrial estates and small and medium-sized (SME) hubs.
The demand for cash from the ATMs peaks during the weekends and during festive and public holidays due to thousands of foreign workers, apart from locals wanting to withdraw cash from the banks or do other transactions. The small ATM enclosures in the banks are crowded, and many people line up outside.
It is becoming problematical and onerous for those who need cash urgently to find out that there is no money in the ATMs.
As a result, many bank customers must return multiple times to determine whether there is enough cash in ATMs before making withdrawals. It has become a major issue in Sungai Buloh, particularly in Bandar Baru Sungai Buloh.
Normally, the foreign workers make small withdrawals for their weekly expenses, and due to this, they come back repeatedly and more frequently for withdrawals, unlike the locals, who normally plan their withdrawals for larger amounts.
This situation has been persisting for a long time, and the banks have overlooked the inconvenience they pose to their customers by their inaction.
The fasting month of Ramadhan, which began on March 23 and will be followed by Hari Raya Puasa, will increase demand for cash from ATMs.
Apart from the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah payments, civil servants’ salaries and pensions will also be withdrawn. All these things mean that banks need to place more cash in the ATMs for their customers to withdraw their money.
Banks must check this important matter on a regular basis, especially in areas with a high number of foreign workers and withdrawals that fluctuate to highs and lows at times.— March 24, 2023
V.Thomas is a Focus Malaysia viewer.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
