The government disbursed RM15.4 million in temporary welfare assistance to 2,905 members of the Orang Asli community last year, the Dewan Negara was told.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the support was delivered by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Department of Orang Asli Development. The financial aid covered a range of schemes, including general assistance, support for children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Responding to a question from Senator Manolan Mohamad on measures to protect Orang Asli women and children, Nancy outlined targeted initiatives for vulnerable groups, including divorced women and single mothers.
She said the ministry, through the Department for Women Development, runs programmes such as Legal Literacy and Women’s Rights and the KasihnITa initiative to help women understand their rights and achieve greater self-reliance.
To encourage economic participation, the Orang Asli Entrepreneur Support programme offers capacity-building assistance of up to RM15,000, including skills training and start-up kits for small businesses.
Addressing school dropouts, the government continues to provide aid under the Education Incentive Assistance Scheme. The scheme supports students with school uniforms, hostel essentials, transportation and pocket-money allowances.
Nancy added that kindergarten facilities in interior areas have been upgraded and expanded, benefiting 4,596 pupils.
Her ministry also delivers protection services and social interventions for women and children, including case management, counselling and referrals to relevant agencies.
