EXPLORING THE ROLE OF DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WELFARE MALAYSIA IN ENHANCING THE EFFICIENCY OF PRODUCTIVE WELFARE

Abstract

This research investigates the role of the Malaysian Social Welfare Department in optimizing productive welfare programs, focusing on poverty alleviation, and enhancing the lives of the B40 group. The study encompasses a qualitative exploration, engaging senior officials from the department and experts in social sciences, primarily through in-depth interviews. The pivotal concern of poverty has led to the establishment of welfare programs in Malaysia, with key objectives revolving around improving cooperation among stakeholders and addressing capacity-building challenges within the department. This study's significance lies in pinpointing weaknesses in welfare program implementation and aims to refine policies and coordination among relevant agencies. The research employs variables such as inter-agency cooperation, capacity building, monitoring mechanisms, community involvement, and policy influence, as derived from a comprehensive literature review on welfare and social development. The study utilized a qualitative research methodology, particularly Basic Qualitative Inquiry, focusing on the Malaysian Social Welfare Department. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with five participants, including senior department officials and esteemed academics in social sciences. Thematic analysis was employed for data analysis, exploring core themes emerging from the interviews. Findings emphasized the pivotal role of comprehensive monitoring and structured collaboration among stakeholders. The discussions underscored the importance of tailored staff training, policy review, insights from foreign models, and community engagement as critical elements for improving welfare programs. In conclusion, the study offers a comprehensive overview of the Malaysian Social Welfare Department's role in welfare programs, proposing a Productive Welfare Improvement Model (MPKP) and synthesizing the findings. MPKP encompasses monitoring, collaboration, staff capacity building, policy review, insights from foreign models, policy influence, and community engagement. Aligned with the 2 Years Exit Program (2YEP), MPKP promises to strengthen welfare initiatives and drive poverty alleviation, thereby contributing to a brighter future for all Malaysians.