Kuala lumpur: The government, through the Finance Ministry, has approved the payment of allowances for the Civil Defense Student Corps (Kor SISPA) to enhance the welfare and motivation of higher education institution (IPT) students participating in the team's training. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud announced that the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) is currently finalising the details of the method and eligibility for the payment.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, this initiative reflects a continuous commitment to empowering the welfare, motivation, and professionalism of the country's young volunteers. Mustapha spoke on behalf of Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi at APM's 74th Civil Defence Day (HUTPA 74) celebration. APM Chief Commissioner Mohammad Abiddin Abd Rahman mentioned that the priority for the allowance would be given to final-year students, with gradual expansion based on existing allocations.

The allowance has been finalised at RM8 for each hour of training attended, aligning with the existing volunteer member allowance rate. There are currently 20 public institutions of higher learning (IPTA), 24 private institutions of higher learning (IPTS), and 14 teacher education institutes (IPG) that have established the Kor SISPA nationwide. Approximately 22,000 students have undergone training, with 1,100 of them being final-year students.

Mustapha highlighted the need for APM to increase personnel and assets to maintain optimal preparedness for disaster challenges. He noted the necessity to expand and improve APM's office buildings and operational assets, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak, which cover large areas. The government hopes APM will continue to excel and effectively manage increasingly critical disasters.