SPAOH: A total of 86 registered supermarkets and retailers across Betong Division have been mobilised to facilitate the distribution of aid under the Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SKAS) programme, ensuring recipients can conveniently access essential goods.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the initiative covers key areas, including Betong, Spaoh, Debak, Saratok, Pusa, Maludam, Kabong and Roban, providing wider access for beneficiaries to utilise the assistance.
He noted that the SKAS programme continues to play a vital role in helping low-income groups cope with the rising cost of living by ensuring sustained access to basic food necessities.
“For 2026, the state government has increased the programme’s allocation to RM640 million compared to RM480.2 million in its first year of implementation, which benefitted more than 888,000 recipients,” he said.
According to him, a total of 857,814 recipients statewide are eligible for SKAS this year, including 50,284 in Betong Division.
He added that the aid rates have also been revised upwards, with households receiving RM950 (previously RM800), senior citizens RM500 (previously RM400), and single individuals RM300 (previously RM250).
The assistance will be disbursed in phases in March, May and November, to ensure continuous financial support throughout the year.
Distribution of the aid is carried out via the S Pay Global platform, allowing recipients to purchase essential goods at registered outlets while promoting a more efficient and secure cashless system.
For bedridden patients under the Sarawak Social Welfare Department (JKMS), redemption will be coordinated by the Divisional Social Welfare Office (PKMB), while those facing difficulties may seek assistance from community leaders (KMKK).
Uggah also expressed appreciation to all relevant agencies, Resident and District Offices, as well as KMKK for ensuring the smooth implementation of the programme, while urging recipients to utilise the aid prudently to meet their daily needs.
