KUCHING: Local communities in Sarawak are encouraged to apply for the establishment of Senior Citizens Activity Centres (Pawe) in their respective areas.

       Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (pic) said Sarawak currently has only 13 Pawe, which she considers to be insufficient for a large state.

       She said applications can be made to the Social Welfare Department (JKM), adding that each parliamentary constituency is allowed to have more than one centre, Bernama reported.

       “These centres are for senior citizens to gather for religious, recreational and also economic activities.

       “Assistance will also be provided, but the community needs to establish the centres first. After that, they can apply for fund assistance not exceeding RM100,000 per year,” she told reporters during an Aidilfitri gathering with her ministry’s target groups here yesterday.