KENINGAU: June 19, 2026 – The government continues to intensify efforts to enhance the welfare of Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) veterans through the implementation of the MADANI Veteran Care Program (PVM) 2026, which emphasises a ground-level approach to engage with and understand the needs of this group more comprehensively.
Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the programme served as an important platform to ensure that all government initiatives and assistance could be channelled effectively to ATM veterans, particularly those requiring ongoing attention and support.
According to him, the implementation of PVM 2026 is based on five main focus areas, welfare, health, housing, education and economic empowerment, which have been designed to improve the wellbeing of veterans and their families.
“The government is committed to strengthening the social protection network for ATM veterans through various initiatives that can help them lead more comfortable lives after completing their service to the nation,” he said.
Among the measures introduced is a monthly cost-of-living allowance of RM500 for non-pensionable ATM veterans aged 60 and above. Veterans with school-going children are also eligible to receive educational assistance of RM700 as a one-off annual payment to ease the financial burden of education costs for their families.
He was speaking at the MADANI Veteran Care Program 2026 held in Keningau on Wednesday.
In a related development, he informed that Sabah has recorded 7,893 registered ATM veterans, including 855 in the Keningau district.
To strengthen housing aspects for veterans in the state, the government has allocated RM850,423 this year under the Sabah ATM Veterans Housing Initiative, which involves new home construction projects and renovation works for existing residences.
Meanwhile, Head of the Keningau Branch of the Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association (PVATM), Pius Nain @ Valentine, welcomed the implementation of the programme and described it as evidence of the government’s continued commitment to safeguarding the welfare of former military personnel.
He said the assistance provided was highly meaningful, especially for veterans facing chronic health problems and financial difficulties, thus helping to reduce the burden borne by them and their families.
Recipient Salamin Mujun said the government’s initiative had provided great relief to veterans in need of support after completing their service.
According to him, the monthly living allowance, home renovation programme and Rahmah Basket contributions not only helped from a financial perspective, but also served as a morale boost for veterans to continue their lives with greater confidence and wellbeing.
