Latest news with #CheMurad
Borneo Post
13-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
eBantuanJKM officially rolled out in Sarawak to boost aid delivery
Nancy presents a basic necessities kit to a recipient during the event. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 13): The Welfare Department (JKM) has officially launched the implementation of its online Welfare Assistance Management System (eBantuanJKM) in Sarawak, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and integrity of federal financial aid delivery in the state. JKM director-general Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan said the event was held to recognise the significant contributions of stakeholders involved in the system's rollout in Sarawak. 'This programme is intended to acknowledge those involved in the successful rollout of the eBantuanJKM system in Sarawak, particularly officers and staff from divisional and district welfare offices who manage federal welfare assistance,' he said. Che Murad also thanked the Accountant General's Department of Malaysia (JANM) for their role in integrating the federal government's financial and accounting system (iGFMAS) with eBantuanJKM. Recognition was also extended to the Federal Secretary for Sarawak and the Sarawak government for their support in facilitating implementation across the state. He emphasised that financial assistance remains a core service of JKM, helping targeted communities sustain a decent quality of life. 'There are currently 11 financial aid schemes under JKM and these include the Children Assistance (BKK), Elderly Assistance (BWE), and the Disabled Workers Allowance (EPOKU), the Assistance for Non-Working Persons with Disabilities (BTB), Care Assistance for Bedridden Disabled or Chronic Patients (BPT), and the Federal General Assistance (BA). 'Other schemes are the Foster Child Assistance (BAP), Apprentice Training Assistance (BLP), Launch Grant Assistance (GP), and Prosthetic or Support Equipment Assistance (BAT),' he said. As of 2024, a total of 550,416 individuals nationwide received assistance via JKM, with a combined allocation of RM2.33 billion. In Sarawak alone, 43,956 recipients have benefitted, with disbursements amounting to RM214.45 million. The eBantuanJKM system, first developed in 2006 and launched in 2007, features a centralised database to improve the monitoring and management of aid recipients at the federal level. It has enabled the elimination of manual payment vouchers, reduced the use of transit accounts, helped prevent misuse of funds, and ensured that all implementing offices comply with current financial regulations. Che Murad extended his appreciation to Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri for officiating at the launch and to all agencies involved in supporting the efficient delivery of federal financial aid via the eBantuanJKM system. At the event, certificates of appreciation were presented to Sarawak JKM director Semawi Mohamad and to 12 other divisional welfare officers from across the state. In addition, basic necessities kits were distributed to 10 recipients from welfare offices in Kuching and Samarahan. Among those in attendance were the federal Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development secretary-general Datuk Dr Maziah Yusoff; state Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development permanent secretary Datu Felicia Tan; National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) Director-General Abdul Shukur Abdullah; and Yayasan Kebajikan Negara (YKN) chief executive officer Nordina Haron. aid delivery eBantuanJKM nancy shukri
The Star
25-05-2025
- General
- The Star
Overcrowding, untrained caregivers among dangers of unlicensed childcare centres
PUTRAJAYA: Overcrowding beyond the permitted capacity is a frequent offence committed by unregistered childcare centres identified by the Social Welfare Department. Its director-general, Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan, stated that unlicensed daycares often have an insufficient number of caregivers who also lack the necessary skills to care for children, posing safety risks. He said it was also common for unregistered childcare centres not to comply with the minimum requirements set by the Social Welfare Department, local authorities, the Fire and Rescue Department and the Health Ministry. "The premises frequently do not comply with established safety standards, including building suitability, lack of closed-circuit television (CCTV), insufficient emergency staircases, exits, or emergency doors and fire prevention equipment. "We the Social Welfare Department strongly urges all parties operating childcare centres to register, ensuring that all necessary facilities are provided for the safety and well-being of those involved children,' he said in a recent interview with Sinar Harian. Che Murad also urged parents to ensure that their chosen childcare centre is registered. Operators running unlicensed centres may face action under the Childcare Centres Act 1984 (Act 308), which includes closure orders, fines and prosecution. Che Murad said premises that persist in operating without registration may be fined up to RM10,000. He also said that the Women, Family, and Community Development Ministry has launched an initiative for the public to identify whether a premise is registered. The Registered Taska Plaque initiative featured a QR code that contains details of the operator and the validity period of their certification. 'All childcare centres registered with the Department are required to employ caregivers who have passed examinations, undergone skills training and been equipped to calmly handle emergency situations through practical training conducted by certified training agencies,' he said. As of March, there are 3,266 childcare centres registered with the department that comply with the requirements under Act 308, the Childcare Centres Regulations 2012, and the relevant guidelines in force.
New Straits Times
25-05-2025
- General
- New Straits Times
Overcrowded unlicensed day care centres fail safety standards, warn authorities
PUTRAJAYA: Many unlicensed day care centres are overcrowded and staffed by unqualified carers, putting children at serious risk, the Social Welfare Department has warned. Its director general Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan said that one of the most common offences these operators commit is accepting more children than the permitted space allows, often without enough caregivers or safety measures. As reported by Sinar Harian, he said such centres often operate based on the owner's preferences rather than complying with regulations, with little regard for the safety and well-being of the children under their care. "Unregistered premises typically do not meet the minimum requirements set by the Social Welfare Department, local authorities, the Fire and Rescue Department, and the Health Ministry. "Most of them fail to meet basic safety standards, such as building suitability, availability of CCTV, fire escape stairs or emergency exits, and fire safety equipment," he said. Che Murad said these issues were deeply concerning to the authorities, especially as the Social Welfare Department is responsible for child protection under the Child Act 2001. "We strongly urge all day care operators to register with the Social Welfare Department to ensure all necessary facilities and standards are in place," he said. He also reminded parents to ensure that the nursery or child care centre they choose is legally registered. In January, the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry introduced a "Registered Taska Plaque" featuring a QR code with the operator's details and certification period. The plaque is displayed at registered premises to help parents make informed decisions. "All registered centres must employ trained caregivers who have passed exams, undergone practical emergency response training, and received skills development through certified agencies. "These carers play a vital role not only in minding children but also in providing early childhood education, which shapes the nation's future generation," he said. Che Murad said one of the main challenges faced by unlicensed operators is meeting the stringent registration conditions under the Childcare Centres Act 1984 (Act 308). Other recurring offences include exceeding available space capacity, hiring untrained caregivers, and failing to follow safety regulations. Operators who continue to defy the law may face enforcement action under Act 308, including warnings, fines, or legal prosecution. As of March, 3,266 daycare centres were registered with the Social Welfare Department, all compliant with Act 308, the Childcare Centres Regulations 2012, and other applicable guidelines. Che Murad said the department also plays a key role in protecting children from abuse, neglect and exploitation. Besides conducting investigations, the department also provides a safe shelter for children at risk or harmed. "We ensure that children who are abandoned, abused, or neglected receive proper care and protection," he said. He said parents should always choose a registered centre, as these are legally required to install CCTVs for monitoring and to adhere to reporting obligations under Section 29 of the Child Act 2001 in case of abuse or neglect.
Borneo Post
17-05-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
KPWKM expands Pawe centres nationwide, fosters intergenerational bonding in Sabah
Che Murad (third right) observes a 'Citra Minda Intergenerasi' activity at the Kampung Benoni Pawe. KOTA KINABALU (May 18): The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) reaffirms its commitment to address the diverse needs of women, families and communities, including the elderly, through its senior citizen activity centres (Pawe) and the Kembara Kasih KPWKM Sabah 2025 roadshow. These centres allow senior citizens to carry out daily programmes and activities within their communities, with 190 active Pawe nationwide currently registered with the Welfare Department (JKM). Sabah has 23 Pawe with 6,471 registered members. Two more centres are planned in Kota Belud and Pantai Dalit, expected to start operating in October this year. These centres offer services in the form of social assistance and development for senior citizens involving strategic collaboration between the government, non-governmental organisations, corporate bodies, and the local community. Opportunities for lifelong learning, health therapy and social interaction are also provided, as well as a space for the elderly to share experiences and contribute ideas. JKM director-general Che Murad Sayang Ramjan said they are also implementing the 'Citra Minda Intergenerasi' programme at the Pawe, involving the older and younger generations. Che Murad said this collaboration not only tightens their bonds, but also allows senior citizens to pass down their knowledge, skills and culture to the youth. 'We hope that these centres foster the spirit of solidarity and strengthen communities' wellbeing, while enriching the lives of our senior citizens,' he said at the launching of a new Pawe and 'Citra Minda Intergenerasi' programme in Kampung Benoni, Papar yesterday. Armizan strikes the gong to officiate the new Kampung Benoni PAWE and 'Citra Minda Intergenerasi' programme, witnessed by KPWKM deputy secretary-general (Operations) Farah Adura Hamidi (second right) and others. The programme was held in conjunction with the 2025 Kembara Kasih initiative by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. Papar MP Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali officiated the ceremony, which is the second of six pit-stops in the state-level Kembara Kasih KPWKM 2025 programme. To further expand programmes and activities for the well-being and development of senior citizens, JKM this year introduced the Senior Citizens Activity Empowerment Programme (Pawe@3A). This initiative allows Pawe activities to be held anywhere, any place and any time, in the form of routine or non-routine activities implemented periodically or one-off. Armizan Mohd Ali Che Murad Kembara Kasih KPWKM Sabah KPWKM lead Pawe
Daily Express
15-05-2025
- Daily Express
Child neglect cases tripled over last 5 years, says welfare department
Published on: Thursday, May 15, 2025 Published on: Thu, May 15, 2025 By: FMT Reporters Text Size: Social welfare department director-general Che Murad Sayang Ramjan said the rise in cases is concerning and likely underreported due to factors such as social stigma, fear of repercussions, and a lack of awareness. (Bernama pic) PETALING JAYA: Child neglect cases in Malaysia almost tripled to an alarming level over the past five years, according to the social welfare department. Its director-general Che Murad Sayang Ramjan said the rise in cases was concerning and likely underreported due to factors such as social stigma, fear of repercussions, and a lack of awareness, Utusan Malaysia reported. Advertisement 'Many families face economic pressures, and sometimes children bear the brunt of this stress. In some cases, parents struggling with addiction take it out on their children,' he was quoted as saying. The department recorded 1,618 child neglect cases in 2020, a number which jumped to 4,126 cases last year. Section 17(1)(d) of the Child Act 2001 defines child neglect as the failure to provide children with basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, affection, and education, which may expose them to harm, including life-threatening situations. The department documented a total of 31,247 child protection and care cases between 2020 and last year, with neglect forming a significant portion. More than 64% of the victims were girls. Sexual abuse cases were also high during the same period, with a total of 9,365 incidents reported. The highest number was recorded in 2023, with 2,523 cases. Citing data from the police, Che Murad said more than 95% of abuse and sexual abuse cases involved perpetrators closely related to the victims, such as biological or step-parents. He also said the unregulated use of social media and easy access to pornographic content were exposing children to risks, including grooming by paedophiles. 'There are cases where AI technology was used to manipulate children's images in inappropriate ways. As technology advances, these threats become harder to combat,' he said. The department launched the KASIH Kanak-Kanak advocacy programme last year in collaboration with the education ministry to counter child sexual abuse. Since its rollout, it has reached 337 schools and benefitted over 128,000 children and 189,000 participants. This year, the programme will expand to 300 more schools and 30 selected children's activity centres. Che Murad advised the public to use the 24-hour hotline (Talian Kasih 15999) to report cases of abuse or neglect. 'Many of these children are abused by those closest to them and don't know where to turn. If they confide in a teacher or a friend, this hotline can help them get the support they need,' he said, adding that all reports will be investigated by the police. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
