KUCHING: The challenges faced by single mothers, particularly those raising children with special needs, must be met with stronger and more coordinated support from all sectors of society.
Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said single mothers remain one of the most vulnerable, yet resilient groups, in the community.
She noted that Persatuan Ibu Tunggal Sarawak continues to play a vital role as one of the oldest and largest umbrella bodies representing single mothers across the state, with branches established throughout various divisions.
Fatimah explained that the definition of a single mother extends beyond widows to include women who are unmarried with adopted children or those whose spouses are unable to work due to illness, leaving them as the head of the household.
She shared the case of a single mother with five children, including one with scoliosis, to illustrate the daily struggles faced by many.
According to her, the mother had to frequently leave work to bring her child for medical treatment, eventually losing her job due to repeated absences.
She said the family now relies on welfare assistance of about RM1,000 monthly, which is largely spent on rent, transport and utilities, leaving little for food.
“Sometimes there is rice, but there is no side dish. The children cannot just eat plain rice,” she said.
Fatimah added that while assistance from non-governmental organisations helps provide basic necessities, it is often still insufficient to meet the full needs of such families.
She said the government provides additional festive assistance, including an extra RM100 during Aidilfitri, to help ease the burden of welfare recipients.
“At least during the festive season, they receive a little bit more to help them celebrate,” she said.
At the same time, she commended corporate bodies, non-governmental organisations and individuals for stepping forward to complement government efforts in supporting vulnerable groups.
Fatimah added that the state is working towards a comprehensive support system under the Special Needs Community Complex, which will provide services ranging from early intervention and education to vocational training and residential care.
She stressed that while some individuals with special needs can achieve independence, others may require lifelong support, making it essential to build a holistic ecosystem.
“We want to ensure support is available from early childhood until later stages of life,” she said.
