SIBURAN – The Sarawak government has increased the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS) assistance from RM950 to RM1,100 in an effort to help the people cope with the rising cost of living and ongoing economic pressures.
Sarawak Premier Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari said the second phase of the aid distribution began on Thursday, following the first payment made in March this year.
Speaking after reviewing the SKAS distribution process at a supermarket in Siburan on May 15, the Premier said households would receive about RM400 during the current phase, while the remaining balance would be distributed in November.
He said the increase in assistance is expected to benefit around 800,000 people throughout Sarawak, especially families facing higher prices for food, household goods and daily necessities.
According to him, the aid was distributed ahead of the festive season to help recipients prepare for celebrations and reduce the financial burden on households.
“The state government is fully bearing the cost of this assistance so that the people can use their remaining income for other important needs,” he said.
The Premier also announced that the Sarawak government had increased its allocation for public assistance from RM800 million to RM1 billion statewide due to increasing pressure from the cost of living and global economic uncertainty linked to international conflicts.
Apart from direct financial aid, the state government has also introduced several measures to reduce living expenses for the rakyat. Among them is a 25 percent electricity tariff discount for Sarawakians, while residents in rural areas can enjoy discounts of up to 30 percent.
He said the initiative would provide savings for all groups in society, including singles, households and rural communities.
In another effort to reduce business operating costs and control rising prices of goods and services, the Sarawak government is also providing rental discounts to traders renting premises owned by local authorities and government agencies.
The move is expected to help small traders and business operators continue operating in a challenging economic environment while ensuring prices remain affordable for consumers.
Also present during the review session were Deputy Premier Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Roland Sagah Wee Inn, State Secretary Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister of Transport Jerip Susil, Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Martin Ben and Member of Parliament for Puncak Borneo Willie Mongin.
The increase in SKAS assistance reflects the Sarawak government’s continued commitment to protecting the welfare of the people during uncertain economic conditions. With rising living costs affecting households across the state, the additional financial support and utility discounts are expected to provide much-needed relief for many families and businesses.
