KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is taking a major step toward preventive healthcare for its ageing population with the launch of the Senior Citizen Health Benefit (SCHB), says Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
Speaking at the ‘Program Demi Rakyat Zon Selatan 2025’ event at the Waterfront Hotel here today, she said the initiative, which provides RM500 in annual health benefits to eligible senior citizens, ensures that the elderly can access medical check-ups, basic treatment, and essential medications at 290 registered clinics statewide.
“Our elderly no longer need to worry about medical costs. They now have access to better healthcare and a higher quality of life in their golden years,” she said.
She explained that the SCHB is part of Gabungan Parti Sarawak’s (GPS’) broader social protection strategy, complementing existing programmes such as the Kenyalang Gold Card (KGC) and Bereavement Compassion Assistance (BIK), both of which have already benefitted thousands of Sarawakians.
Under the KGC, 342,419 members now enjoy discounts and privileges through over 1,140 partners, while 26,790 heirs have received a total of RM73 million in bereavement aid.
Fatimah stressed that the SCHB strengthens the government’s long-term preparation for an ageing society, noting that 14 per cent of Sarawakians are now aged 60 and above, the second highest after Perak.
“This is not just a statistic; it reflects a new social reality that requires forward planning and sustainable support systems,” she added.
She urged GPS service centre staff to act as “community coaches”, ensuring that government assistance reaches the grassroots and that no senior citizen is left behind.
The SCHB joins a suite of 138 Premier Sarawak Initiatives rolled out since 2017, demonstrating GPS’ commitment to inclusive, people-first development.
