Mukah gets RM6 mln in welfare assistance

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Fatimah (second right) presenting Christmas hampers to recipients at the Dalat carnival.

DALAT: A total of RM6.02 million in financial assistance has been given out by the Welfare Department to senior citizens, single mothers and the disabled persons (OKU) in this division this year.

Welfare, Women and Family Development Minister Datuk Fatimah Abdullah said out of the amount, RM3.3 million was given to 1,071 senior citizens.

She also said RM1.7 million was given out to 727 single mothers.

“Under this scheme, single mothers will receive RM100 per child and the maximum amount is RM450,” she said.

“In addition, some RM1.02 million has been distributed to OKUs.”

She was speaking at a mini carnival for senior citizens, children and the disabled at Dalat Unity Stadium on Wednesday night.

Fatimah, who is also Dalat assemblywoman, explained that the success and effectiveness of the ministry and the department were not only measured by the number of people being assisted but also by the number of those whose names were deleted from the list of aid recipients because they had uplifted their own livelihoods.

She also revealed that from 2009 to October this year, the number of senior citizens registered at the seven Senior Citizens Activity centres (PAWE) in the state was 79,175, while 161,718 had registered with the 12 Senior Citizens Service Centres (PPWE) across the state.

She also said her ministry also provided support to OKU’s through monthly financial assistance, purchase of tools and vocational training.

“Currently, there are 43,464 registered disabled persons in the state. Out of the number, 3,648 are receiving their education in 160 primary schools and secondary schools, while 2,300 of them are receiving rehabilitation in 44 rehabilitation centres (PDKs) across the state,” she said.

The carnival also saw the presentation of ‘Senior Citizen Role Model 2014’ and Talented OKU, books presentation to 33 preschools here, presentation of contribution to fire victims and Christmas hampers to 300 recipients.

Fatimah (second right) presenting Christmas hampers to one of the recipients at the carnival.