KUCHING: The Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS), a scheme to assist targeted groups, will be channelled through the state’s S Pay Global e-wallet.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg explained that unlike conventional cash aid, SKAS will utilise the S Pay Global platform.
“What we provide is that the assistance will be channelled to the users’ S Pay Global account, and the money can be used to purchase basic food items such as rice, cooking oil, and other necessities.
“The government will allocate the aid through S Pay Global, and it will be deducted from the account. This means that every month, eligible recipients will have access to basic food supplies,” he said in the 2025 Sarawak Post-Budget Special Interview by TVS which was aired on Wednesday (Dec 11).
Abang Johari, who is also the Finance and New Economy Minister, said registered merchants, including grocery shops in the village area, will play a role in implementing the scheme.
“Recipients can visit those shops to collect their items, with the government covering the cost through the digital voucher system.
“Basic food items worth between RM100 and RM200, will be covered by the government,” he said.
He added such an approach is to ensure that no family will face issues in securing basic food supplies and being able to put food on the table.
“The initiative is expected to benefit approximately 800,000 people, with a special budget allocation of RM460 million (next year),” he said.
Earlier last month during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting, Abang Johari when tabling the 2025 State Budget, said that the SKAS aims to alleviate the financial burden on Sarawakians, particularly those from low-income groups most affected by the rising cost of living.
He said the annual financial assistance ranges from RM250 to RM800, depending on eligibility.
Eligible recipients are Sarawakians residing in the state, and the eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Households with an income of RM5,000 or below will receive RM800 in assistance.
- Senior citizens without partners and children with an income of RM5,000 or below will receive RM400.
- Single individuals with an income of RM2,500 or below will receive RM250.
