DALAT: The Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SKAS) is an initiative by the Sarawak government that reflects its care and compassion for the people.
Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, said the initiative was introduced to help improve the wellbeing of the people by providing financial assistance to those in need.
“The amount of SKAS assistance this year has also been increased compared to last year.
“This is to ensure it aligns with the current needs of the people and helps them cope with the rising cost of living.
“This step is also taken to ensure the welfare of the people continues to be safeguarded and that every family always has food on the table,” she said.
She said this when speaking at the launch of the SKAS programme for the Dalat state constituency at the Dalat Welfare Complex today.
Fatimah, who is also the state assemblywoman for Dalat, stressed that the SKAS assistance cannot be cashed out.
She warned that strict action would be taken against traders found converting the SKAS assistance into cash, including removing them from providing services under the S Pay Global – SKAS platform.
Recipients, meanwhile, may be blacklisted from receiving future assistance if they are found misusing the aid.
“It is hoped that SKAS will help ease the burden of those in need, especially for those preparing to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri,” she added.
At the same event, Fatimah also presented the 2026 Phase 1 Minor Rural Project (MRP) allocation for the Dalat constituency in conjunction with the Ramadan Ziarah Programme, benefitting 12 recipients with a total allocation of RM35,500.
She expressed hope that the recipients would make good use of the grant for activities at their respective surau and communities.
