SERIAN: At least 30,000 visitors are expected at the 10th Sarawakku Sayang (SKS) programme at the Serian Conference Centre on November 20 and 21.
Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Administration), Datuk Felicia Tan Ya Hua, said the target was realistic despite the final three editions of the programme, including the Serian leg, being shortened from three days to two.
She acknowledged that the requirement for visitors to use QR codes to enter could affect turnout, but said the Serian Resident remained confident of achieving the target.
“Even at the official opening ceremony alone, we expect more than 10,000 people because the invitations in the main tent are already 5,000. We have to be realistic, and I think the turnout will not be less than 30,000,” she said.
She said this at a press conference after the final preparatory meeting for SKS Serian today.
Tan said 48 agencies will offer 152 services, explaining the Sarawak Government’s policies, programmes and development initiatives. The public can also interact directly with agencies for information and advice.
She informed that the official opening is on November 21 at 10:30 am at the main tent, where Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will deliver the keynote address on government initiatives, including mega projects in Serian and the state’s direction.
“Residents in Serian and nearby areas are invited to come in large numbers to hear the Premier’s speech and meet him that morning,” she said.
The Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SKAS) enquiry counter is one of the main focuses, where visitors can find out about eligibility, aid rates and digital disbursement through the SPAY Global platform.
Under SKAS 2026, eligible households receive up to RM1,100, senior citizens RM600 and single individuals RM375, benefiting nearly 900,000 recipients across Sarawak.
Institutions will explain study fields and eligibility under Free Tertiary Education Sarawak (FTES), and SPM school-leavers can apply directly at the counters.
Job seekers can visit the JobSarawak counter, where employers will be present to recruit.
“Even though we provide JobSarawak online, this time the employers themselves come to offer opportunities to our youths,” she said.
On vacancies, she said the exact number cannot be stated, but two or three companies typically take part in such events.
Other attractions include free health screening, community activities and sports. The Konsert Rakyat at night will feature local and well-known artistes, with e-contest draws offering motorcycles as main prizes.
