The Information Communications and Culture Ministry is preparing a paper on the setting up of an old age scheme for artists to meet their special needs arising from disability or old age, the Dewan Negara was told today.

Its deputy minister, Datuk Joseph Salang said under the scheme, artists could pay subscriptions according to their ability until the age of 60 while the benefits and savings could be withdrawn upon maturity.

Responding to a question from Senator Subramaniam Veruthasalam, Salang said the ministry's concern on the welfare of artists was evidenced from the launch of the Artists Welfare Scheme in 2007 before it was changed to the Arts Fraternity Welfare Fund in 2010.

Salang said the fund dished out four types of assistance -- a compassionate aid up to RM10,000, RM5,000 to next of kin after artists' death, payment of medical expanses for chronic illnesses at government hospitals or clinics (up to RM10,000) and cash aid for natural disasters (up to RM5,000).  - BERNAMA