Over RM252 mln disbursed to 558,571 welfare recipients nationwide, says minister

KUCHING (March 26): The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development has disbursed assistance to 558,571 welfare cases nationwide, with total allocations exceeding RM252 million as of January.

In disclosing this, Minister Dato Sri Nancy Shukri said the government remains committed to supporting vulnerable groups, including senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

“As of January 2026, a total of 558,571 welfare cases have been distributed across Malaysia, with total allocations exceeding RM252,319,799.

“Of this, 165,944 senior citizens received monthly aid amounting to RM99,665,300, while 251,132 persons with disabilities received various forms of assistance involving approximately RM97,578,000,” she told reporters during her Ziarah Kasih visit to a household in Kampung Tabuan Lot.

During the visit, the Santubong MP presented aid to three recipients — a senior citizen, a child, and a person with disability who is unable to work. Two wheelchairs were also provided.

“We provide assistance every month. However, one of the recipients had not officially received aid yet, so we came to ensure they receive support while their application is being processed by the Social Welfare Department,” she said.

Nancy said monthly welfare assistance for senior citizens unable to work has been increased to RM600 under the current administration.

She also urged community leaders to help identify residents in need of assistance.

“Many in the village have not yet become recipients. They may not be aware or able to apply.

“We encourage them to inform the nearest Social Welfare Department office. There are offices in every district, but we cannot be in every household,” she said.

Additional support is provided during festive seasons through the National Welfare Foundation (YKN), which she chairs.

“During this visit, YKN contributed RM300 per recipient and Raya food baskets to ease their burden,” she added.

The Ziarah Kasih programme forms part of the government’s broader strategy to safeguard vulnerable groups through a whole-of-society approach involving agencies, community leaders and non-governmental organisations.