KUALA LUMPUR - Bentong member of parliament, Young Syefura Othman lauded the government's budget allocation for women and children which was announced in Parliament today.
She said she was pleased with the government's commitment in ensuring that the welfare of women and children were prioritised.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had announced among others the establishment of a child development department and amendments to be made to the Social Security Organisation Act to encourage women to return to the workforce after their maternity leave.
"I am pleased to see that the government is taking pro-active measures in addressing issues that affect women and children in our country," she said when contacted by Sinar Daily.
" I was thrilled to hear that Socso will amend its Act to allow cthe disbursement of grants equivalent to 80 per cent of the insured salary value of workers to encourage women to get back into the workforce after long maternity or parental leave.”
The grant, worth RM290 million per year, is expected to benefit more than 130,000 women who return to work after taking their maternity leave.
She said she also supported the PM's suggestion for employers to play a bigger role in providing childcare centres or nurseries in workplaces or offices.
"While the government provides childcare centres, we must monitor to ensure that large and wealthy corporations also provide appropriate care centres for babies and children while their mothers work,” she said.
She added that she was also glad that the government has decided to establish the Children Development Department under the Social Welfare Department (JKM), as this proves that the government was committed towards providing comprehensive support for the development and well-being of children in the country.
"I am pleased to see that the government is taking steps to prioritize the development of our children and ensure that they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
"The creation of a dedicated department under JKM to oversee children's development is a significant step forward in promoting the well-being of our younger generation.”