Kuala lumpur: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry (KPWKM) will review the Social Welfare Department’s (JKM) assistance application assessment process following concerns over the competency of its officers, particularly in cases involving rural applicants, the Dewan Rakyat was told today. Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad emphasized the importance of scrutinizing each application carefully and reducing bureaucratic hurdles to ensure eligible applicants receive the necessary aid.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the issue was highlighted in response to an interjection by R. Yuneswaran (PH-Segamat), who questioned the frequency of rejected JKM assistance applications and the medical expertise of officers assessing these applications, especially since many rural residents depend on traditional treatments. Noraini noted that JKM’s allocation for the current year had increased to RM2.7 billion, a rise of 12.83 percent from RM2.4 billion in 2024. This increase aims to enhance assistance delivery and broaden eligibility criteria for various schemes.
She detailed the hike in assistance rates, including child assistance, which has been raised to RM200-RM250 per person with a family maximum of RM1,000, and senior citizen aid increased to RM600 per month. Assistance for persons with disabilities (PwD) has also been adjusted, with rates now ranging from RM150-RM500. The income eligibility for care assistance for PwD and chronically ill patients has been elevated from RM3,000 to RM5,000, and the disabled worker allowance income limit adjusted from RM1,500 to RM1,700.
Noraini also addressed the employment target for PwD in the public sector, revealing that only 0.64 percent, or 9,331 individuals, had been employed as of June 30, with KPWKM having filled 170 positions. She assured that KPWKM, in collaboration with the Public Service Department (JPA) and other agencies, remains dedicated to achieving one percent participation of PwD in the public service sector.
The Dewan Rakyat approved the ministry’s estimated operating and development expenditure of RM4,187,963,600 for Budget 2026 by a majority voice vote, following a debate by 26 MPs. During the session, several MPs also acknowledged the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on November 25, by wearing orange attire, in alignment with Dewan Rakyat speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul’s call to support the global movement against violence towards women.