GOV’T EXPANDS DISASTER AID: PAYMENTS CAN BE CLAIMED EVERY THREE MONTHS - NADMA

PASIR MAS, Nov 8 (Bernama) -- The government has expanded the Bantuan Wang Ihsan (BWI) programme for disaster victims, allowing payments to be claimed every three months, compared to only once previously during the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) season.

National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) Community and Social Development Section director Jefny Muhammad said this improvement aims to ensure that victims who are repeatedly affected still receive the appropriate assistance.

“Previously, aid was provided only once during MTL, but now claims can be made every three months, even outside the MTL period.

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“For example, if a victim’s house is affected by a disaster in November, they are eligible for RM1,000. If another disaster occurs three months later, say in March, they are eligible again,” he told reporters after officiating the close of the Disaster Readiness Programme at Kampung Tasek Gondang, Rantau Panjang, here.

He explained that BWI is not only limited to floods, but also covers storms, landslides, and any other natural disasters that cause damage or destruction to residences.

According to Jefny, the new BWI procedure has been incorporated into the MyIBJKM system to facilitate registration and eligibility checks for victims.

He said payments will now be made automatically and transferred directly into the victims’ bank accounts through Bank Simpanan Nasional or other registered banks.

He emphasised that victims must register in the MyIBJKM system early to streamline transfers at temporary evacuation centres and maintain accurate records.

Commenting on the preparedness for MTL, Jefny said all security agencies are coordinated by NADMA and are now on full alert.

“MetMalaysia (Malaysian Meteorological Department) has issued an early warning that the MTL began on Nov 6, and will continue until March next year.

“Thailand has also issued an early warning for floods yesterday. On Malaysia’s side, we have made preparations and are ready for any eventuality,” he said.

He added that all states have held disaster management meetings to streamline preparations for possible floods and ensure adequate allocations at the state level.

“Funding for disaster management operations has also been channelled by NADMA to all states and implementing agencies at the state level,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jefny said more than 62,000 heads of household (KIR) in Kelantan have registered in the MyIBJKM application as of Oct 31.

He said this number represents early registration and is expected to increase as more victims register.

“Registration is important for record-keeping and aid distribution. When a disaster occurs, victims can go to a relief centre or locations designated by the Social Welfare Department (JKM) to register as disaster victims,” he added.

-- BERNAMA