KUCHING: Pertubuhan Pembangunan Insan Sarawak (PPIS) welcomes the 2026 Sarawak Budget with hope and optimism that this year’s allocations will continue to strengthen the state’s commitment towards inclusive growth, social equity, and people-centred development.
PPIS president and founder, Manjeet Kaur Sidhu, said as a community-based organisation working closely with youth, women and families in need, PPIS hopes the 2026 Budget will address Sarawak’s most pressing realities.
“These include rural infrastructure, basic amenities, education, social protection and women empowerment. Access to clean water, stable electricity, affordable healthcare, and quality education are not privileges; they are the foundation of dignity,” she told Sarawak Tribune today.
She added that the budget’s greatest impact would come from improvements in key sectors such as rural connectivity and utilities, healthcare access and mental health support, education and skills training (TVET), women and community entrepreneurship support and environmental sustainability.
“Strengthened rural clinics and outreach programmes will ensure that medical and emotional care reach even the most remote communities,” she said.
“With increased allocations for youth training and digital literacy, Sarawak’s young generation can build their future right here at home, while better support for women and community entrepreneurs through microgrants and small business support will empower women to build livelihoods and stability for their families.”
Manjeet also called for rural development funds to be managed with transparency and accountability to ensure that every community, regardless of location, benefits from the allocations.
“PPIS applauds allocations that directly impact people’s lives, including rural road and infrastructure funding as well as welfare and empowerment programmes for women, children and families in crisis, providing social safety and opportunities for healing,” she added.
“Grants for entrepreneurship and training targeting youth and women-led initiatives help promote self-sufficiency and foster innovation. Investments in renewable energy and the green economy will create sustainable jobs while preserving Sarawak’s natural heritage.”
She also said that PPIS stands ready to collaborate with government agencies and private partners to ensure that every initiative reaches its intended beneficiaries.
“Implementation must be community-driven, inclusive and transparent. Budgets become meaningful when they transform policy into people’s progress, when they heal, uplift and empower,” she stressed.
She added that the 2026 Sarawak Budget has the potential to create not only a stronger economy but also a more compassionate society where progress is measured by the wellbeing, confidence and dignity of its people.
“PPIS believes that with shared vision, accountability and compassion, Sarawak can continue to rise as a model of unity and inclusive development for all Malaysians,” she concluded.
