Kuala lumpur: The Communications Ministry is prepared to help coordinate monthly aid applications to the Social Welfare Department (JKM) for artistes who suffer permanent disabilities and require long-term support. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasized the ministry's commitment to supporting the welfare of artistes through collaboration with relevant agencies, despite the one-off assistance provided by the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo stated that in emergency cases, such as permanent disability requiring monthly assistance, the ministry is willing to liaise with JKM, as it falls under their jurisdiction. She mentioned that FINAS can also consider assisting with applications in exceptional cases. Teo shared these remarks during a press conference after visiting two veteran artistes as part of the Ziarah Seni MADANI FINAS programme. The artistes included comedian and actor Sathia Periasamy, known as Sathiya, at Ampang Hospital, and Nico G group member Mohd Shah Rosli, or Dino, at his home.
The press conference was attended by FINAS chairman Datuk Hans Isaac, chief executive officer Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, and chairman of FINAS Industry Affairs, Welfare and Data Committee Rozaidi Abd Jamil. Teo highlighted that 163 artistes have received welfare aid under the programme since 2024, which includes festive season assistance from January up to today.
Sathiya is currently receiving treatment in hospital after undergoing surgery to amputate three parts of his left foot, including the big toe, due to a recent infection. Dino is recuperating at home after suffering a stroke on the right side of his body three weeks ago while at work, which led to his hospitalization.
Both artistes received cash aid and essential supplies to help alleviate the burden of their health and financial challenges. Teo remarked that the aid is not solely from the ministry but also involves several other parties, serving as a gesture of concern and support for the contributions of those in the creative industry.