B40 Households to Get RM1,100 Under Sarawak SKAS Aid in 2027

KUCHING – The Sarawak Government has earmarked RM650 million under the Sarawak Budget 2027 to implement Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS), a cash assistance scheme to help low-income and vulnerable groups cope with the rising cost of living.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the funding would allow targeted financial assistance to continue for B40 households, senior citizens and eligible singles. They will receive RM1,100, RM600 and RM375 respectively.

He made the announcement when tabling the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 for its second reading on Monday. The bill was presented at the Second Meeting of the Fifth Session of the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN).

“In facing the rising cost of living, we, the GPS Government stands resolute in our mission to shield the vulnerable, empower families and uphold the principle that no Sarawakian shall be left behind.”

He added, “Under this initiative, we reinforce direct cash buffers through enhanced targeted assistance, including SKAS which provides financial aids for B40 households, senior citizens and eligible singles.”

The SKAS allocation forms part of the state government’s wider set of direct and targeted assistance measures. These are intended to ease the financial burden on the people, particularly at a time of rising living costs.

The scheme is structured around three categories of recipients, with the amount varying according to household circumstances. B40 households, which fall within the bottom 40 per cent of household income earners nationally, are set to receive the largest payment at RM1,100.

Senior citizens will receive RM600, while eligible singles will be given RM375. Targeting assistance in this way is generally intended to direct limited public funds towards those considered most in need.

Direct cash aid is commonly used by governments as a quick and flexible form of support, as recipients can decide how best to spend the money according to their own priorities.

Such payments can help families with everyday expenses including food, transport, utilities and school-related costs.

Eligibility and payment arrangements for assistance programmes of this kind are normally announced by the relevant state agencies

Households and individuals who believe they qualify may wish to follow official announcements for details on the application process and disbursement schedule. — Sarawak Daily