Speaking at the department’s 75th anniversary celebrations today, Muhyiddin said that the restructuring would ensure the delivery of efficient and customer-friendly welfare assistance.

“The restructuring includes efforts to strengthen its delivery of assistance services, better coordinate staff as well as improve the division of tasks,” he said.

He called on all agencies involved in providing social assistance to streamline their aid delivery mechanisms so that aid can be delivered to those in need as soon as possible.

Muhyiddin also announced an undisclosed “special allowance” for welfare officials serving in “risky areas” such as institutions for the elderly and the disabled.

He also called for the enactment of a Social Work Profession Bill to ensure the welfare of social workers is protected.

Muhyiddin said he chaired a National Economic Action Council meeting on Feb 22, where among the proposals put forward include one to create a centralised database to coordinate eligibility checks and records of aid recipients.

There are currently 192 types of aid channelled to people across various government agencies.

He urged welfare department staff to be proactive and efficient “delivery agents” in communities, he also wanted to see less red tape in application processes and a fair distribution of aid.

“This includes improving the aid application process, reducing bureaucratic constraints and ensuring aid truly reaches those in need, regardless of religion, race and background.

“Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria for aid recipients should be treated fairly and equitably.”

The minister for women, family and community development, Rina Harun, said a revamp of the department would help it improve its efficiency. She also called for an increase in 2,500 staff for the department in order to allow it to expand its services better.