RM464.5 mln disbursed to 758,483 SKAS recipients through S Pay Global, says Premier
he said the initiative has significantly impacted the daily lives of Sarawakians. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (May 28): A total of RM464.5 million has been disbursed to 758,483 recipients under the Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SKAS) initiative through S Pay Global, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
In his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today, he said the initiative has significantly impacted the daily lives of Sarawakians.
'This initiative not only helps reduce the cost of living, but also stimulates household spending and supports community economic growth, particularly for small traders and retail operators,' he said.
He noted that SKAS, launched under the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government early this year, goes beyond physical infrastructure development by focusing on the well-being of the people across all socio-economic aspects.
'The Sarawak government remains committed to ensuring inclusive and equitable development. Our principle is clear – no one should be left behind in the wave of progress.'
Abang Johari added that SKAS has also accelerated digital adoption at the grassroots level, with village committees, youth associations and women's bureaus actively using digital platforms to manage activities, disseminate information and promote local products online.
'Previously focused mainly in urban areas, the use of S Pay Global has now expanded into rural areas, increasing the efficiency and visibility of local organisations and encouraging participation in the digital economy,' he said.
He said the initiative contributed towards forming a digitally literate society capable of applying technology and adapting to the evolving digital landscape.
On the education front, Abang Johari reiterated the state government's focus on human capital development, in line with Sarawak's transition towards a new economy.
He said strategic discussions were held with the University of Cambridge during the state government's recent working visit to the United Kingdom to prepare Sarawakian talents for future challenges.
'As we build the foundations of the new economy, we must ensure our people are equipped with the right education and skills to be active participants, not just beneficiaries, of this economic transformation,' he said.
He added that the state government's commitment includes free tertiary education starting in 2026 for deserving students, as well as for Sarawakians under 40 who wish to resume full-time studies.
'This is not just a policy. It is a promise to our industries that Sarawak will have a talented, skilled and future-ready workforce. And most importantly, a promise to ourselves that we will build a Sarawak where talent, not wealth, determines success,' he said.
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