The Social Welfare Department was established in April 1946. Within a period of 76 years, JKM has evolved through many phases in fulfilling its role in national development. From its involvement with major problems caused by the Second World War, the role and functions of the department have expanded to include prevention and rehabilitation services of social issues and community development. As one of the government agencies with an important role in social development, it has been placed under several Ministries:
1946 - 1951
Department of Social Welfare Malaya
1946 - 1951
1952 - 1955
Department of Industry and Social Relation
1956 - 1957
Department of Health and Social Welfare
1956 - 1957
1957 - 1958
Ministry of Health and Social Welfare
1958 - 1959
Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare
1958 - 1959
1960 - 1962
Ministry of Health and Social Welfare
1963 - 1964
Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare
1963 - 1964
1964 - 1982
Ministry of General Welfare
1982 - 1990
Ministry of Social Welfare Malaysia
1982 - 1990
1990 - 2004
Ministry of National Unity and Social Development
2004 - kini
Ministry of Women, Family and Social Development
2004 - kini
