(Kuching, 6th) South City Councillor Zheng Zhiguo acknowledged that the Newborn Incentive 2.0 is a warm gift from the Sarawak government to the people, demonstrating the Sarawak government's continued adherence to the governance philosophy of "people-oriented," especially emphasizing the welfare of mothers and infants and universal protection.
He said that the Sarawak Newborn Incentive 2.0 (EFS 2.0), announced by Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development, has been newly upgraded this year. It is now managed by Affin Bank and includes a tangible protection feature offering a one-year free life insurance policy with coverage of up to RM10,000 for eligible parents.
“This program allows every newborn in Sarawak to receive a RM1,000 incentive, and one of the parents can enjoy one year of free insurance. It is not just a monetary encouragement but also a thoughtful protection, a warm gift from the Sarawak government to the people.”
He noted that population growth is an important step in promoting national progress, and Sarawak must not lag behind.
This move not only alleviates the economic burden during unexpected family changes but also reflects the government's further efforts in deepening the universal protection system. It is worth mentioning that the insurance policy will automatically take effect once the newborn's account is opened, truly achieving "seamless integration and worry-free protection."
According to his understanding, the policy has shown effectiveness not long after implementation. As of March 31 this year, 139,925 children in Sarawak have benefited, with cumulative disbursements reaching RM139.9 million, which is not only a numerical growth but also the concrete fulfillment of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak government’s commitment to "caring for Sarawak citizens."
He indicated that the implementation of the policy extends to every family in Sarawak, especially providing start-up support and risk protection in the early stages of life, undoubtedly a strategic investment for long-term development.
The comprehensive upgrade of this policy is a well-deserved people-benefit policy, also highlighting the Sarawak government’s core governance of being people-oriented, family-focused, and promoting community harmony.
The "Newborn Incentive 2.0" initiative launched by the Sarawak government is a significantly meaningful people-benefiting policy, not only reducing the economic burden of new parents but also demonstrating the Sarawak government’s high regard for family, the next generation, and population development strategies.
Zheng Zhiguo noted that he has been serving at the grassroots for a long time, organizing various people welfare activities over the past years, including mobile services, assistance to the disadvantaged, single-parent family support, etc. He emphasized that people’s welfare and livelihood issues are the main reasons he insists on visiting and serving at the grassroots every week.
“I understand deeply how important the welfare system is to people’s lives. Many families face not only economic difficulties but also challenges in healthcare, childcare, and education. This newborn incentive plan undoubtedly can give families strength and assure them they are not alone on the parenting journey.”
He emphasized that, as of 2023, Sarawak's population is approximately 2.5 million, ranking medium-sized nationally. “We must admit that the current birth rate is generally declining, and population is the foundation for both the nation and Sarawak's development. Without enough young people, not only will future labor force be insufficient, but national competitiveness will also be affected.”
“Therefore, the Sarawak government’s launch of the Newborn Incentive 2.0 is a forward-looking initiative, not just addressing current family burdens but also planning for the future. This plan is a positive step in response to the national development direction.” He added.
He also stated that as a city councillor, he will continue to cooperate with various government policies to deliver welfare to those most in need and through various platforms to let more people know how to apply and benefit.
“I strongly support this policy and am very pleased to see the Sarawak government making efforts in welfare and population policies. I call on everyone to widely spread this good news and encourage eligible families to bravely have children, collectively moving towards a more promising future for Sarawak.”
He emphasized that the future of Sarawak starts with every newborn.