“Any Malaysian with monthly income not exceeding RM830, incapable and in need of assistance may apply to the Social Welfare Department for state and federal assistance scheme.”

The invited speaker of the Sibu North District Social Concern Seminar, Mr Soon Kong Tiong , the Sibu Social Welfare Department Officer, explained to the attendees.

The method of calculation of income is based on applicant’s income and number of family members who live in the same house. Allowance for handicapped workers and financial assistance for the handicapped is based on income of the person or the applicants.

Income includes salary income, bonus, children or other family allowances, rental income, income from other accounts, pensions, SOCSO, EPF, investment fund such as ASB, as well as income from selling of goods like crops, fisheries, poultry and other income.\

There are two kinds of financial assistance: the State Public Financial Scheme and the Federal Assistance Scheme.

Mr Soon, also a member of Sing Ang Tong Methodist Church, revealed that the Department had been trying to help the disadvantaged group but its effort was hindered by manpower problem. He hoped that the churches could help to bring the news to those in need and help them in ways like filling in the forms and other formalities. Once approved, the applicants would immediately receive the relevant financial assistance.

Compiled by April
Translated by KT Chew