BELADIN: The Sarawak government, through the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) Sarawak, has allocated funds for the provision of aid to patients who require high medical expenses for surgery or the purchase of special support equipment.
Deputy Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development (Community Wellbeing Development) Razi Sitam said the aid was specifically for members of the community who earned below the poverty line, i.e below RM1,169.
According to him, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is sensitive to the needs of the affected group, who may find it difficult or unable to afford high medical costs.
“As such, under JKM Sarawak, we have an allocation approved by the Premier.
“Any patient who requires considerable medical expenses and earns below the poverty line is eligible to apply.
“I am concerned that many are unaware of this aid so I hope grassroots community leaders can help spread the word,” he said.
He said this during the launching of the Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2023 Sejambak Kasih event in the Betong Division (for the Beting Maro constituency) at the Masjid al-Amin Hall on Wednesday (Apr 12).
He added that the applications would go through the District Social Welfare Office (PKMB) before being brought to a special meeting at the ministry for consideration.
“There are many illnesses involved, such as eye, ear, kidney, and heart diseases, and more… as long as it involves surgery or the purchase of special support equipment.
“However, it needs to be confirmed by a medical officer (a doctor). To apply, one can go through PKMB for processing, evaluation and review,” he said.
Touching on the Aidilfitri contributions in the Betong Division this year, Saribas assemblyman Razaili Gapor who was present stated that 2,056 JKM clients received contributions totalling RM205,600.
“However, only 100 recipients were invited (in the Beladin area), each receiving RM100 cash and a hamper worth RM80. .
“The remaining recipients will have the cash credited to their accounts,” he added.
At the same event, JKM donated wheelchairs to six recipients.
It also presented the Kenyalang Gold Cards (KGCs) and the Disabled Persons Cards (OKUs) to recipients as well as the Death Aid Assistance (BIK) to two recipients.
Batang Lupar MP Mohamad Shafizan Kepli, Sarawak JKM Director Adana Jed, and Pusa District Officer Bujang Ladi as well as the Betong District Social Welfare Officer Abdul Shamat Kassim were also present.
