KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal government is ready to provide non-governmental organisations with financial and infrastructural assistance, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today.
He said registered voluntary groups could apply for grants through the Social Welfare Department.
“There are various grants available such as administrative grants, grants for food expenditures, maintenance/repair grants as well as special grants for disabled students,” he said on his blog, NAJIBRAZAK.com, here yesterday.
He said the government also provides a special treasury aid which is financial assistance distributed to NGOs for the purpose of implementing programmes related to the development of women, family and community.
Najib also said that registered voluntary bodies could also apply for tax exemption.
He said with a population of more than 32 million people, it is impossible for the government and its agencies to take care of the welfare of every single citizens.
Thus, he said this is where NGOs can play a role in assisting the government in helping those in need.
“That’s why NGOs and voluntary organisations that do not take profits can help in looking after the welfare of the unfortunate such as the homeless, the elderly and orphans.”
“The government encourages the establishment of more NGOs so that those in need can be noticed by the government. The government also hopes that it can cooperate directly with NGOs to implement more welfare programmes.” Najib said.