Kuala lumpur: The responsibility of caring for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, persons with disabilities (PwD), and bedridden patients, requires collective efforts from society and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), according to Social Welfare Department (JKM) director-general Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive involvement from all parties to address the increasing number of individuals requiring social support.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Che Murad highlighted that active registrations of PwD nationwide have risen from 814,966 last year to 849,775 as of June 2026. Additionally, the number of registered autistic children increased significantly from approximately 10,000 in 2015 to 89,000 in 2026. The total number of financial assistance recipients managed by JKM reached 636,232 in 2025, while between January and May this year, the number was 568,103.
Che Murad stated, "Therefore, the responsibility cannot be placed on a single agency or JKM alone. Society is invited to join hands and work together to help those in need," during his speech at the Basic Care Seminar for the Elderly and PwD for the Central Zone. The event was part of the RYTHM-Rhythm of Harmonious Life Programme, attended by Selangor JKM director Azmir Kassim.
Che Murad also addressed caregiving challenges faced by families of bedridden patients, particularly regarding physical capacity, skills, and finances. He noted that financial assistance provided to carers might not suffice to cover all needs, as care costs include items such as nappies, medicines, equipment, and special milk.
He advocated for a welfare approach that transcends mere financial aid by offering training, skills, and opportunities for vulnerable groups and their carers to build more resilient lives. The two-day seminar aimed to enhance knowledge, basic skills, and public awareness regarding holistic care, emotional well-being, and community support for the elderly and PwD.
The RYTHM-Rhythm of Harmonious Life Programme is a strategic initiative by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development through JKM, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Higher Education. It aims to empower community involvement, volunteers, and the younger generation in strengthening the national social support system.
The programme gathered 500 participants, including carers of the elderly and PwD, supervisors of Senior Citizens Activity Centres (PAWE), Community-Based Rehabilitation Centre (PDK) staff, volunteers, youths, students, NGOs, JKM officers, and local communities from Selangor, Perak, and Kuala Lumpur. Modules included knowledge sharing on the basics of caring for the elderly and PwD, managing carers' emotional stress, safety and daily care, strengthening the community support system, and practical simulations on patient management.
Che Murad concluded by stressing the importance of such initiatives in fostering a more caring and compassionate society, ensuring that carers gain the necessary knowledge and skills to manage vulnerable groups effectively.