MUKAH: Sarawak maintains a strong rural-first development strategy by directing more than 60 per cent of its total state development budget to rural areas.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said this include alongside delivering an RM876-million financial assistance package to buffer citizens against rising living costs.
Hence, he commended Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for implementing swift fiscal measures during global economic uncertainties.
“State progress is not solely measured by mega physical structures, but by how effectively the government assists citizens in managing their daily living needs,” he said.
“The state government introduced an RM876-million financial relief package to enhance the ‘Sarawakku Sayang’ (SKS) programme providing up to RM1,100 for households earning under RM5,000, RM600 for senior citizens, and RM375 for single individuals – alongside a 25 per cent discount on domestic electricity bills until December 2026 and a 50 per cent rental discount for local authority premise tenants.”
Abdullah said this during his speech at the dinner with community leaders and village chiefs (KMKKs) at Kingwood Resort on Friday night (Oct 2).
He also highlighted that out of the RM12.9-billion state budget, RM7.3 billion was earmarked for development spending, with over 63 per cent (RM5.6 billion) focused on rural and interior territories.
“This focus is deeply appreciated by rural communities. Ever since the Premier assumed leadership, every tabled budget has consistently allocated over 60 per cent of its development expenditure toward developing rural areas,” he said.
Abdullah expressed confidence that the rural focus would continue in the upcoming state budget presentation on Oct 12 at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
