Requests for higher welfare spending ahead of Budget 2027

As the government prepares to table Budget 2027, two proposals have emerged from the welfare sector, each focusing on increased support for caregivers and disadvantaged groups.

The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has submitted a request to the Finance Ministry for a rise in the monthly assistance given to caregivers of bedridden patients. Its director-general, Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan, said caregivers currently receive RM500 a month and that requests had been made for the amount to be increased to help ease the burden of caring for patients.

"We will bring this matter to the government and hope it will be considered," he said after officiating the 2026 JKM Volunteer Convention in Putrajaya on August 22, 2026.

Che Murad Sayang added that JKM had also requested additional allocations to strengthen efforts to assist disadvantaged groups in society.

"We understand the government's financial constraints, but we believe this is important to enable us to support those who are less fortunate in our society," he said.

Ministry seeks additional RM168mil

Separately, the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry is seeking an additional RM168mil in its allocation under Budget 2027. Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the proposed increase was mainly for welfare programmes and improving the livelihood of target groups.

"We currently have an allocation of about RM3bil for welfare recipients," she said. "With the additional RM168mil we are proposing, our allocation may be closer to RM4bil, including extra funds for welfare if there is an increase in recipients."

Nancy made the remarks after launching care sector initiatives under the Madani Budget 2026 in Kuching on Monday (Aug 24). She said the proposed increase would mainly go to the Social Welfare Department, including for caregivers.

"This is a new thing that we have, caregiving to support women who are heads of households, families and senior citizens," she said, adding that the ministry had submitted its budget proposals to the Finance Ministry.

"We will only know the exact amount when the Budget is tabled on Oct 9," she said.

Caregiver training targets

Nancy also outlined the ministry's plans for the care sector. She expressed confidence in achieving the target of 50,000 professional caregivers in the country by 2030.

"This year we are targeting 2,000 caregivers, focusing only on those caring for senior citizens," she said. "But the 50,000 target will be more comprehensive, involving caring for the disabled and children as well."

In her speech, Nancy said proper care must begin with learning. "Good intentions and love are not enough if not accompanied by knowledge, skills and awareness about the needs of the person being cared for," she said. Based on this principle, the ministry aims to produce 50,000 skilled caregivers by 2030.

Volunteer force behind welfare efforts

Che Murad Sayang also highlighted the role of JKM volunteers, describing them as the "eyes and ears" of the government in identifying the needs and challenges faced by communities. He said information provided by volunteers on the ground helped JKM formulate policies and implement welfare programmes.

As of July 2026, some 7,294 people had registered as JKM volunteers, comprising 2,008 men and 5,286 women, with the majority aged between 40 and 60. Che Murad Sayang said most volunteers carry out their duties without compensation and remain ready to assist whenever challenges arise.

"They are among those who work alongside JKM as key drivers of our efforts. If we were to rely solely on government agencies to handle everything, we would not have the capacity to do so," he said.

The 2026 JKM Volunteer Convention served as a platform for volunteers to share knowledge and experiences with related agencies and non-governmental organisations. At the event, Che Murad Sayang presented certificates of recognition to outstanding JKM volunteers and Community Inspiration Icon recipients at national and state levels.