Welfare Dept hands out RM233.42 mln to 55,786 recipients

DALAT: The Sarawak Social Welfare Department (JKMS) has disbursed RM233,427,950 to 55,786 recipients in the state since the last 11 months.

Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said for Dalat district alone, JKMS distributed RM6,794,900 to 1466 recipients for the same period – January to November. 

“The amount marks a 15.98 percent increase in Dalat district compared to the RM5,858,800 disbursed in the same period in 2022,” he said. 

She said this during the ‘Sejambak Kasih Krismas 2023’ programme held at the Social Welfare Complex yesterday (Dec 11). 

Fatimah, who is also Dalat assemblywoman, added the aid distribution including financial contribution and hampers has been carried out for over 20 years.

“This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden during celebrations as well as uplift the spirits of the recipients and their families and recipients,” she said. 

She also said the Sarawak government is committed to assisting individuals affected by disasters. 

“When there is a disaster, the government’s priority is to respond swiftly and collaborate effectively with agencies in Dalat and the Mukah Division,” she said. 

On a related note, she stressed the importance of quality education in lifting individuals out of poverty. 

“Thus, parents are urged to prioritise their children’s education so that they have the opportunity to get a good job and thus helping to eradicate poverty,” she said. 

She also called on parents to monitor their children’s activities to prevent them from getting involved in social issues.

Earlier, during the event, 603 recipients were entitled for the aid donation in conjunction with Christmas, with 120 of  them invited to participate and receive the donation.