KUCHING: The Sarawak Basic Necessities Assistance (SKAS) has received positive feedback from the public since its announcement by the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, during the Sarawak Budget 2025 presentation at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) in November.

SKAS provides yearly financial aid between RM250 and RM800 through SarawakPay to help vulnerable groups buy essential items like rice and cooking oil.

Those eligible include Sarawakians living in the state with a household income of RM5,000 or less, who will receive RM800.

Senior citizens without spouses and children earning RM5,000 or less will get RM400, while bachelors earning RM2,500 or less will receive RM250.

Reporters from the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) interviewed several people in Kuching on Friday to get their thoughts on this assistance.

Mohd Nassaruddin, an SPM graduate who is currently working as a food seller, said the aid is helpful, especially for those starting their adult lives.

“The cost of living is high now, so this is good for bachelors like me to cover daily expenses and support my family,” he said.

Sunita Abdullah, a kek lapis maker and seller, supported the initiative as it helps small businesses like hers.

“I need financial aid to buy modals for my business because some items need rotating capital,” she explained.

Meanwhile, Mohamad Taha, a 79-year-old retiree, said the aid would help people without steady income.

“This is good because it reduces expenses. For those without fixed income, it provides some relief,” he said.

Those interested in checking their eligibility or learning more about SKAS can do so from January 1, 2025, at https://sarawak.gov.my.

SKAS will be paid starting the first quarter of 2025 through the S Pay Global e-wallet and can be used at registered supermarkets and stores selling basic goods. -UKASnews