Tengku Zafrul calls caregivers essential to Malaysia's economic future

At a ceremony in the Ampang Jaya Convention Centre, Tengku Zafrul emphasized that dependable home caregivers allow parents to focus on work while ensuring children receive proper care, making the sector a key part of Malaysia's socio-economic ecosystem. He urged a shift in perception, arguing that caregiving is closely linked to parental employment and the nation's future. The minister highlighted the need for stronger training, certification, and legislative frameworks to raise professional standards.

Feedback from caregivers gathered at the event will be presented to the Ministry of Finance and the prime minister for consideration in the 2027 agenda, covering support, training and program expansion. Since its launch in August 2025, the Kasih Madani initiative has reached over 1,000 caregivers across Kuala Lumpur, Perak, Kedah and Pulau Pinang through courses such as Karisma, Semai and Bitara, backed by Merdeka Center, Yayasan Sime Darby and the 2026 budget.