One-off aid to enhance human resources
MIRI: A one- off aid to each new born child in Sarawak from January 1 next year is one of efforts to enhance the human resources.
The money will be deposited into the newborn baby’s account, and can only be taken out when the baby attains the age of 18.
Minister of Welfare, Community Well Being, Women, Family and Childhood Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said the idea was announced by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg at the closing of High Performance Team (HPT) Retreat 2018 in Penang recently.
“For example, if the initial money deposited into the account when he was a baby is RM1,000 the statement of account each year will show the interest earned, and when the baby reaches the age of 18, he or she can take out the money to continue his/her study, or to set up a business.”
She said every baby whose name is listed in the National Registration Dept ( NRD) would receive the assistance regardless of their background, religion or whether they are rich or poor in urban or rural setting.
“My ministry will be working with Department of Health, NRD and State Financial Secretary to ensure that this will become a reality.
“It is a good idea and it proves the Sarawak government is a caring government.
“The amount of assistance will be announced by the chief minister when presenting the state budget on Nov 5,” she said.