HULU SELANGOR, May 9 — Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri today called on the public to alert authorities about children living in poverty so they can be assisted.
She said the government offers more than 130 types of aid, and reporting such cases would guarantee no child is left without access to these benefits.
She said ongoing efforts to enhance children’s living standards through social protection are being discussed at the Malaysian Social Protection Council.
“It’s crucial to remember that children, as assets of our nation, will experience stunted physical growth if deprived of proper nutrition, which will have adverse effects on the country,” she explained.
“These are individuals we aim to nurture as future leaders. Hence, it is imperative to safeguard their health and needs,” she said during a gathering with aid recipients and Social Welfare Department staff in Selangor today.
Yesterday, the media reported nearly 95 per cent of children from low-income households in Kuala Lumpur live in poverty, citing a report titled “Living on the Edge” by the United Nations Children’s Fund Malaysia.
Nancy said the reassessment of aid rates is under review, along with considerations to amend outdated policies to ensure the people’s welfare.
“It’s an ongoing process… We’ve also been advised to examine various other policies, including those for women, the elderly, and people with disabilities (OKU),” she added.
During the event, Nancy presented appointment letters to 12 recipients of the Hulu Selangor Child Protection Team and Child Welfare Team, approval letters for assistance, OKU cards, and aid to 10 beneficiaries.
— Bernama
