Government To Consider Fixed Allocation For YKAT - Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 3 (Bernama) -- The government is prepared to consider a request to provide a fixed allocation to the Yayasan Kebajikan Artis Tanah Air (YKAT) to safeguard the welfare of local artistes.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he would discuss the matter in detail with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also Finance Minister.

“The government is always committed to helping the people. So, on behalf of the government, I want to give my commitment to this matter, to the industry players, that we will help.

“In fact, the government has also introduced the Gig Workers Bill 2025, under which artistes and creative industry players who have long felt sidelined or neglected are now given due attention by the government,” he said when launching the Budi Kasih Malaysia 2025 concert here today.

Organised by YKAT, it was part of an initiative to raise funds to support the welfare of Malaysian artistes.

Also present were Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, Deputy Human Resource Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad and YKAT chairman Datuk DJ Dave.

Earlier, in his speech, DJ Dave called on the government to increase financial support for the foundation in its efforts to safeguard the welfare of local artistes, particularly veterans and those with health issues.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid urged non-governmental organisations, corporate bodies and individuals to play an active role and contribute towards safeguarding the welfare of artistes in the country to ensure it is always at an optimal level.

He also presented the Anugerah Ikon Seni to three recipients in the categories of singer, musician and actor – Datuk David Arumugam, Man Kidal and Margaret Gan.

Each received RM3,000 in cash and a trophy.

-- BERNAMA