Malaysia's Social Welfare Dept seeks higher caregiver allowance for bedridden patients

PUTRAJAYA — The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has formally requested that the Finance Ministry boost funding for caregiver assistance in the upcoming 2027 budget, signalling growing concerns over support for those caring for bedridden dependents.

The department's submission seeks an increase to the existing RM500 caregiver allowance, which provides financial relief to individuals responsible for the daily care of patients confined to bed. The allowance programme is designed to recognise the physical, emotional and financial demands placed on family members and professional caregivers.

The request comes as Malaysia grapples with an ageing population and rising incidence of chronic conditions that confine individuals to bedrest. Caregivers of bedridden patients often face significant out-of-pocket expenses for medical supplies, medications and specialised equipment, while simultaneously managing lost income from reduced employment opportunities.

The Finance Ministry will review JKM's proposal alongside other departmental requests during the 2027 budget preparation process. The outcome of these negotiations will shape the government's commitment to caregiver support in the coming fiscal year.

The timing of JKM's request reflects broader policy discussions in Malaysia regarding elderly care and disability support, areas that have increasingly featured in national budget allocations over recent years.