KUCHING: The special assistance measures introduced by the Sarawak Government are expected to ease the financial burden on households while providing indirect support to local entrepreneurs, hawkers, micro traders and SMEs across the state.
Sarawak Entrepreneur Association’s President, Nizam Khalyd, welcomed the special assistance package announced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, describing it as timely and impactful amid global economic pressures stemming from the Middle East conflict.
He said the enhancement of SKAS assistance, the 25 per cent electricity discount for domestic users as well as the 50 per cent rental discount for markets, stalls and selected government-linked business premises would bring much-needed relief.
“These initiatives will not only help ease the burden on households but will also provide meaningful indirect support to local entrepreneurs, hawkers, micro traders and SMEs across Sarawak,” he said in a press statement on Thursday (April 16).
From the business community’s perspective, Nizam noted that measures which strengthen household purchasing power and reduce operating costs would generate a positive multiplier effect on local economic activity.
He added that the rental discounts, in particular, offer significant relief to small traders and startup entrepreneurs facing tighter margins amid ongoing global uncertainties.
He further said the move reflects the Sarawak Government’s proactive and responsive leadership in ensuring that social welfare protection goes hand in hand with economic resilience.
“We are confident these measures will help sustain consumer confidence, preserve business continuity, and support grassroots economic momentum throughout 2026,” he added.
On behalf of the entrepreneurial community, Nizam expressed appreciation to the Premier and the Sarawak Government for continuing to prioritise the welfare of the rakyat while safeguarding the strength of the local business ecosystem.
He also expressed hope that the Sarawak Government would continue engaging closely with the business community to develop practical solutions to cushion the cascading effects of rising global costs, noting that many local businesses remain affected due to reliance on imported raw materials and supplies from Peninsular Malaysia and overseas.
