Kota Kinabalu: A SUM of RM173.56 million has been allocated to enhance people’s welfare and wellbeing.
Masidi said the allocation covers social assistance, disaster relief, healthcare support, early childhood education and programmes for vulnerable groups, including People with Disabilities (PWD).
He highlighted that RM26.06 million will fund the School Social Assistance Programme, benefiting over 227,000 pupils across Sabah with school uniforms, shoes and stationery.
“RM71.29 million will support welfare schemes, including PWD assistance, senior citizens, single mothers, orphans and food aid for the destitute and poor,” he said.
He added that the disaster relief funding of RM10.05 million will assist victims of fires, floods, landslides and other emergencies, while RM4.02 million is allocated for haemodialysis treatment for 2,182 kidney patients.
“RM670,000 will expand Sabah Autism Centres (Paus) in Tawau, Sandakan, Kudat and Beaufort, providing quality early education for children with autism,” he said.
He emphasised that the new Kasih dan Kongsi Programme will receive RM500,000 to support early childhood development in rural areas, and the Homeward Programme will continue aiding bedridden patients and PWD.
“RM3.2 million in grants to the Sabah Council of Social Service (MPMS) will strengthen community-government collaboration and implement initiatives such as Healthy Breakfast Assistance for 750 children,” he said.
Masidi stressed that welfare support complements youth, women and sports development programmes by ensuring vulnerable groups can participate in training, education and athletic opportunities.
He also underscored that an additional RM4.37 million is allocated for the operation and maintenance of old folks’ homes, Taman Didikan Kanak-Kanak Kurang Upaya and Welfare Offices across districts to maintain safe and conducive environments.
Under the 13MP, he said, a ceiling of RM39.83 million has been approved for 12 projects, including the construction of Taman Didikan Kanak-Kanak Kelainan Upaya in Nabawan District, with RM12.69 million earmarked for new and continuation projects.
“Awareness programmes on family development, health, consumerism and women leadership will receive RM960,000, while RM550,000 is allocated to the Malaysian Anti-Drug Association (Pemadam) Sabah to continue prevention and awareness programmes for students, youth, and communities,” he added.
Masidi emphasised that the 2026 State Budget demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring social protection, inclusivity and equal opportunities, reinforcing Sabahans’ quality of life while supporting human capital and community development initiatives.
