| Abstract |
This slide describes the current situation in family institutions during the pre-pandemic COVID-19, by also showing the pattern of family well-being in the country through the Malaysian Family Well-Being Index (FWBI), a special measure introduced by the National Population and Family Development Board (NPFDB) since 2011. Despite the increase in scores in the third series of FWBI in 2019, the situation in family institutions seems to have changed with the onset of the COVID-19 epidemic in the country in early 2020. Sensitive to the increasing number of daily cases of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic wave in the country, NPFDB has conducted a series of online public opinion poll studies to know some aspects of life including (i) the current situation of the pandemic era family; (ii) the family's behavior in facing a pandemic situation (iii) the role of mothers and fathers in the family during a pandemic; (iv) the level of well -being of mothers and fathers in the family institution; and (iv) the challenges and preparation of parents related to the use of digital technology. The results of this survey have been used as the main input to assist the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (MWFCD), especially NPFDB to develop appropriate programs and services as well as disseminate findings through existing social media platforms to the general public. Various initiatives including economic and social stimulus packages have been implemented by the Government to address the issue of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly to the affected groups, in line with the "No One Left Behind" statement. With the allocation that has been channeled, MWFCD through its agencies including the Social Welfare Department (JKM) and NPFDB has intensified efforts to help the affected target groups, in addition to continuing existing activities, programs and services. In general, these stimulus and assistance packages have not only had a positive impact on economic recovery, but also on the social development of the community. Recently, with the concept of "Malaysian Family" introduced by YAB Dato 'Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, the Prime Minister of Malaysia is seen to be able to be a medium for the unification of society across religious, racial and ethnic boundaries to work together to solve the big problems facing the country when this. In addition, it can indirectly help further strengthen the family institution, as a basic unit that produces quality human capital for national development. |
