BINTULU – Following his participation in the Bintulu Car Free Morning programme at Tanjung Batu Beach, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg continued his official schedule with a breakfast session at Farley Food Garden on 23 May 2026.
The informal gathering provided an opportunity for the Premier to engage directly with traders, visitors and members of the public.
His arrival was met with a warm reception, reflecting the community’s appreciation for his presence in a relaxed and approachable setting.
During the session, the Premier took time to observe the local business environment and daily economic activities at the food court.
This closer interaction allowed him to gain insights into the challenges faced by traders and the wider community while reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting grassroots economic development.
A key highlight of the visit was the demonstration of the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS) initiative.
At the cashier’s counter, three recipients carried out transactions using the assistance provided under the programme.
The exercise was intended to showcase how SKAS operates in practice, enabling eligible individuals to obtain essential goods at participating outlets.
The SKAS scheme is part of the Sarawak Government’s wider strategy to ease the financial burden of households, particularly those most affected by rising living costs.
By offering direct support for basic necessities, the initiative aims to ensure that assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries in a transparent and effective manner.
The Premier’s decision to witness the implementation of SKAS first-hand underscored the administration’s determination to guarantee that welfare programmes are not only well-designed but also properly executed.
His presence at the demonstration highlighted the government’s emphasis on accountability and its focus on ensuring that public funds are channelled responsibly.
Community members expressed appreciation for the Premier’s willingness to engage with them in a casual environment, noting that such interactions help strengthen trust between leaders and citizens.
The breakfast session also served as a reminder of the government’s broader vision to build a resilient and inclusive Sarawak, where economic growth is balanced with social welfare.
By combining policy oversight with direct community engagement, the Premier reinforced the message that development strategies must remain people-centred.
The SKAS initiative, alongside other welfare measures, reflects the state’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the well-being of its citizens while promoting sustainable progress.
