KUCHING – The Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, has announced a comprehensive financial assistance package for 2026 amounting to RM876.2 million.
The initiative is designed to ease the rising cost of living faced by Sarawakians amid global economic pressures.
The package includes an increase in the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS), electricity discounts for households, and rental reductions for small traders.
According to the Premier, the measures are a proactive step to support communities affected by global economic instability, particularly the ongoing conflict in West Asia which has disrupted energy markets and driven up costs worldwide.
Speaking at a press conference at the Satria Pertiwi Complex, the premier explained that surcharges on aviation fuel, higher transportation costs, and rising prices of fertilisers and agricultural inputs have contributed to increased food and daily expenses in Sarawak.
He stressed that the government’s intervention was necessary to cushion households from these challenges.
The SKAS allocation has been raised to RM680 million from the original RM543.8 million, representing an additional RM136.2 million in financial support.
This increase will benefit approximately 900,000 recipients, including households, senior citizens, and single individuals, based on data from the Sumbang Tunai Rahmah (STR) programme. Disbursement will take place in three phases: March, May, and November 2026.
In addition, a special electricity discount of 25 percent will be provided to domestic consumers from April to December 2026.
This measure is expected to benefit more than 714,000 households, with financial implications estimated at RM188.1 million.
To further support small traders and hawkers, the state government has introduced a 50 percent discount on market and stall rentals under local authorities.
Micro, small, and medium enterprises renting premises owned by statutory bodies such as the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), Bintulu Development Authority (BDA), and the Land Development and Conservation Authority (LCDA) will also enjoy similar reductions.
This initiative involves RM8.1 million in financial implications and is aimed at reducing operating costs for businesses.
The Premier emphasised that these measures reflect the government’s commitment to protecting the welfare of Sarawakians while sustaining the local economy.
He noted that the assistance package is part of a broader strategy to ensure resilience against global uncertainties and to safeguard the livelihoods of communities across the state.
