Budget 2027: Social Welfare Dept requests increase in RM500 caregiver assistance for bedridden patients

Director-General of Social Welfare Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan poses for a photo with award recipients while attending the opening ceremony of the 2026 Social Welfare Department Volunteer Convention at the Bangi Avenue Convention Centre August 22, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Sunday, 23 Aug 2026 12:04 PM MYT

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 23 — The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has submitted a request to the Finance Ministry for an increase in monthly assistance for caregivers of bedridden patients under Budget 2027.

Its director-general Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan said caregivers currently receive RM500 monthly, but 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 here yesterday.

Che Murad Sayang said 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.

Meanwhile, he said JKM volunteers played an important role not only in assisting the department during disasters but also in becoming 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 identify community needs in formulating policies and implementing 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.

“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.

“Most of them carry out these duties without any form of compensation and remain ready to assist whenever challenges arise in the community,” he added.

The 2026 JKM Volunteer Convention serves as a platform for volunteers to share knowledge and experiences involving related agencies and non-governmental organisations, with the aim of improving service delivery to target groups.

At the event, Che Murad Sayang presented certificates of recognition to outstanding JKM volunteers and Community Inspiration Icon recipients at both national and state levels, in recognition of their commitment, sacrifices and contributions to society. — Bernama