THE Unity Ambassador initiative will be expanded to all state constituencies next year.
Johor health and unity committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said that in the past, Rukun Tetangga (RT) organisations were given funds to organise gotong-royong and other community programmes.
“But next year, we want to do something different.
“The Unity Ambassador initiative was previously more about youths but we want to expand its reach,” he said when contacted about the state’s budget for next year.
There are 838 RTs in Johor, of which 85% are active as they have been sending their yearly reports, said Ling.
“We will also work with the Health Department to provide free medical screening under our RT programmes, as well as join up with the Welfare Department to hold programmes for vulnerable groups,” he said.
Johor women, family and community development committee chairman Khairin Nisa Ismail said the elderly would not be left out in the state government’s budget.
“Malaysia is expected to be an ageing country by 2030, when 15% of the population will be 60 and above.
“We would like to provide a centre so the elderly can optimise their capabilities,” she said, adding this was in line with the National Policy for Senior Citizens and the National Senior Citizens Action Plan.
“The government will also continue to work with NGOs and agencies, including the Health Department, to ensure seniors remain active and productive.”
The Johor Budget 2024 is expected to be tabled on Nov 23. — By REMAR NORDIN
