KUCHING: Community leaders have been urged to play a more proactive role in strengthening grassroots support systems through the ‘Sahabat Pusat Sokongan Sosial Setempat’ (PSSS) initiative under Yayasan Kebajikan Negara (YKN).
Minister for Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, said the programme adopts a holistic and targeted approach in addressing current social issues, particularly at the community level.
She said the presence of PSSS is crucial in tackling challenges such as mental health concerns, domestic violence, abuse, bullying and sexual harassment, which continue to affect communities.
“PSSS provides a comprehensive support platform through professional counselling services and holistic social interventions to assist individuals and families facing life challenges,” she said.
Nancy, who is also chairman of YKN, expressed hope that grassroots leaders would act as key enablers in linking vulnerable groups with available support services.
“I hope community leaders can play a proactive role as drivers in ensuring these services reach those who need them most,” she said when officiating the ‘Sahabat PSSS YKN: Pemimpin dan Rakan Strategik Prihatin’ programme at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here today (April 18).
She added that the programme also serves as a platform for leaders to better understand existing procedures and assistance channels, enabling more effective responses to local issues.
Earlier, about 200 leaders from the Santubong parliamentary constituency attended engagement sessions, including a talk by registered counsellor, Dr Christie Augustine Kiek, on community wellbeing and a cybercrime awareness session by Superintendent Dr Collin Babat.
Nancy also welcomed continued support from strategic partners, noting that contributions in funding, expertise and collaboration have strengthened YKN’s capacity to deliver welfare initiatives more effectively and inclusively.
