Social Welfare

Hong Kong authorities will negotiate with operators in Guangdong to secure additional places for elderly residents amid rising demand for cross-border care homes. The number of Hongkongers using the scheme has grown ninefold since the end of 2022.

May 06, 2026 Reported by AI

The Philippine House of Representatives has approved three bills on third and final reading, including two measures identified as priorities by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council.

Dozens of kidney failure patients in Indonesia have lost access to dialysis after their PBI JKN membership was suddenly deactivated. The Indonesian Medical Association warns of high death risks without the therapy, while the Social Minister insists hospitals must treat patients regardless. A DPR member urges prioritizing health rights over administrative procedures.

February 02, 2026 Reported by AI

Brazil's Chamber of Deputies approved on Monday, February 2, the Provisional Measure establishing the Gás do Povo program, providing free cooking gas cylinders to low-income families. With 415 favorable votes, the bill now heads to the Senate for review. The initiative aims to combat energy poverty and replace the Gas Aid, benefiting up to 15 million families by March.

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi says the government is open to proposals expanding the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program to include people with disabilities and street children. The statement was made in response to media questions on January 7, 2026. Additionally, President Prabowo Subianto emphasized improving procedural discipline in implementing the program.

December 31, 2025 Reported by AI

The number of households consisting of a single person aged 65 or older in Japan has surged to 8.15 million in 2025. An expert panel from the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry proposed in December a new system to support the livelihoods of these elderly individuals and handle post-death procedures. The system would cover funerals and identity verification for hospital admissions, with low or no cost options for those in financial hardship.