KUALA LUMPUR: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry is considering raising the Launching Grant provided under the Welfare Assistance Scheme from RM2,700 to RM5,000. Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri highlighted that this move is aimed at helping those in need access business capital to break free from poverty.
She also stressed the importance of adjusting the grant rate to align with current economic conditions. “We have proposed increasing the grant from RM2,700 to RM5,000 in our management meetings. If approved by the Finance Ministry, we can proceed with its implementation,” she told Bernama.
The one-time Launching Grant, with a maximum rate of RM2,700, is designed to boost the economy of target groups under the Social Welfare Department who have interests, skills, and potential to generate income for themselves and their families.
In response to inquiries about raising the rates of all allowances under the department due to current economic challenges, Nancy explained that such adjustments cannot be universally applied as they involve the national budgeting process.
“However, if there are situations that affect our clients, such as the recent case in Kuching, Sarawak, where a beneficiary initially received RM300 but is now disabled and unable to work, we suggest increasing their allowance to RM500. This is within our capacity to do so,” she said.
She assured that the ministry is committed to expediting the application process for eligible groups to provide assistance swiftly, in light of the current economic difficulties faced by many. Nancy also mentioned that various programmes aimed at empowering women, especially economically, will be organized on the upcoming International Women’s Day 2024 celebration this Friday.
“These initiatives involve multiple stakeholders who will offer information and create opportunities for women, particularly in the economic aspect. Additionally, the Ministry will provide information on laws concerning women’s safety,” she added.
The International Women’s Day 2024 celebration, themed “Wanita Dijulang, Negara Gemilang”, will take place at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, and will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. – Bernama
![[Juliza Jewelry] Handmade Jewelry Simple Woman Necklaces](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==)
