Premier Relieved with Sarawak's Economic Management Receiving A Rating, Hopes Everyone Has Enough to Eat

(Kuching, 18th) Under the impact of factors such as global economic instability, export prices, and exchange rates, the purchasing power of the community has been affected.

Despite this, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari is relieved that Sarawak's way of managing the economy and finance has been recognized by the World Bank and others, granting Sarawak an A rating.

He said that once the economy is well managed, the government can share the revenue with the current groups, such as the RM1000 newborn fund, RM450 maternity assistance, and medical aid for the elderly.

Abang Johari expressed at the launch ceremony of the Sarawak Special Assistance Scheme (Skas) in Serian today, his hope that every Sarawakian will have ample food and that every household will have enough to eat.

"I believe that as long as the economy is managed well, job opportunities will be created, and when every household has a high income, poverty can be eradicated."

It is reported that this special assistance scheme has three categories: families with a monthly income of less than RM5000 can receive RM800, single individuals with a monthly income of less than RM2500 can receive RM250, and elderly people without spouses with a monthly income of less than RM5000 can receive RM400.

For those not yet listed but eligible, applications can be submitted from February 1 to March 31 via the official website http://sarawak.gov.my/skas or at nearby district offices.

It is reported that 35,416 new applications have been received so far, with results to be announced from July of this year. Meanwhile, over 1,200 merchants across Sarawak have registered as partners of the Basic Necessities Assistance Scheme, allowing beneficiaries to use their aid through e-wallets to purchase essentials at these commercial centers.