Idris Suggests Replacing the Word 'Poor' with 'Needy' in PPRMS Program

(Kuching, 10th) Sarawak State Assembly Deputy Speaker Datuk Idris Buang suggested that the word 'poor' (miskin) in the 'Sarawak Poor People's Housing Improvement Program' (PPRMS) be replaced with the word 'needy' (memerlukan).
He pointed out that the word 'poor' carries an outdated and negative connotation for recipients of aid.
"We hope people can live comfortably, and not be permanently labeled as 'poor'." He said this while delivering a speech yesterday at the Muara Tuang constituency (DUN Muara Tuang) '2025 Sarawak Poor People's Housing Improvement Plan' Rural Small Project (MRP PPRMS) grant presentation ceremony. The event was held at the State Assemblyman Service Center in Taman Desa Ilmu.

As the Assemblyman for Muara Tuang, Idris stated that the PPRMS program is a correct initiative by the Sarawak government, aiming to help people obtain more comfortable and safer living environments.
"Under the leadership of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and with the support of GPS, the Sarawak government always cares for the people's well-being."
He revealed that the Sarawak government allocated RM500,000 in 2025 to roll out the fourth phase of PPRMS in Muara Tuang, and across Sarawak, every state constituency receives RM1 million to improve homes for eligible recipients.
"I hope all beneficiaries can provide complete and transparent reports to facilitate future supervision and follow-up actions."
"Village leaders must also ensure that application forms are properly filled out and that implementation of projects is not delayed, so the people can truly benefit," he added.
He also emphasized that the Muara Tuang constituency is the only constituency in Sarawak with a "First Response Team" to ensure smooth project implementation.
At the event, a total of RM499,969 in grants was handed over to 33 villages in the constituency, covering 54 beneficiaries. In addition, 19 public and private university students from the area also received a total of RM7,500 in "education consolation funds".