Not many realise that the government actually provides monthly financial aid to families who are caring for bedridden or chronically ill patients at home.
Through the Department of Social Welfare (JKM), the scheme known as the Allowance for Caregivers of Bedridden Disabled Persons / Chronically Ill Patients (BPT): (Bantuan Penjagaan OKU Terlantar / Pesakit Kronik Terlantar dan Pesakit Kronik Tidak Terlantar (BPT) was set up to ease the heavy burden carried by caregivers.
RM500 per patient each month
Under this scheme, each eligible patient or Person with Disabilities (PWD) (OKU) who is bedridden will receive RM500 every month. The money is given directly to the full-time caregiver, or to the patient themselves if they have no guardian.
If a caregiver is looking after more than one patient, the allowance will be calculated according to the number of dependents.
Who can apply?
JKM outlined several conditions to ensure the aid only reaches those who truly need it. Among the requirements:
- Applicants must be Malaysian citizens living in the country.
- Full-time caregivers of bedridden PWDs or bedridden chronic patients qualify.
- Non-bedridden chronic patients who have undergone continuous treatment for at least three months can also apply in their own name.
- Household income should not exceed RM5,000 a month. However, cases above this threshold may still be considered if there are valid reasons.
How to apply
Applications can be made in two simple ways:
- Online via the official JKM portal.
- Manually at the nearest Social Welfare Office in your district or state.
Every application will be reviewed by JKM officers to ensure eligibility, with decisions made based on need, not entitlement.
What documents are needed
To speed up the process, applicants are encouraged to prepare these documents:
- Copy of MyKad of applicant and patient.
- Copy of MyKad/MyKid of family members living together.
- Proof of income (payslip, employer’s letter, or declaration for self-employed).
- Latest utility bill.
- Bank statement.
- Medical confirmation letter from a doctor or specialist.
- JKM investigation report confirming patient’s condition.
- Additional official forms:Â JKM 18 (Application), JKM 20 (Aid Review), and OKU Registration Form.
For more details or to apply, visit the official JKM website or head to the nearest JKM office.
