Budget 2027: The people of Sarawak are looking for help in living, education and empowerment

KUCHING, 8 Oct: Help for living costs, welfare of the poor and education facilities are among the aspirations of Sarawak people ahead of Budget 2027 presented by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the Lok Sabha tomorrow.

People from all walks of life are hoping that this time the budget will not only continue existing aid, but also extend its benefits to those who really need it, especially low-income families (B40), peasants and students.

Private worker, Syafira Suhaili, 38, described the Charity Asset Contribution (SARA) through MyKad as an initiative that helped greatly alleviate household spending.

"Helping buy basic items like rice and cooking oil is essential because both are the main necessities of every family", he said when meeting TVS here today.

He hoped that the aid would be extended to the purchase of wet goods as well as B40s, especially families facing health problems, unemployment and financial constraints.

Syafira also urged the government to prioritize those in need, as well as encourage spending and purchase of Malaysian-made products.

Meanwhile, the widower, Abu Khan, 62, expects the government to provide special assistance to the poor who are still running small businesses to support families.

"I hope the government can provide assistance to continue the business and cover family expenses", he said.

The former civil defence worker said he had only received aid under the MADANI initiative so far and still bears the costs of a child studying.

In terms of education, the student from the institute of higher learning (IPT), Nur Hafikah Norhissham, 20, hopes financial aid, internet facilities and transport will continue to be strengthened to ease the burden on students.

"Financial assistance to students needs to be increased so that we can cover the cost of food, transportation and learning needs", he said.

He also hoped Wi-Fi access would be expanded so that students do not have to rely on Internet facilities in cafes to continue their learning.

With her, IPT student Alya Ayuni Zamri, 20, wanted tuition assistance, technology devices and internet access expanded especially in rural areas.

"We expect more fee assistance and technological equipment to be provided to facilitate student learning", he explained.

Alya also suggested provision of MADANI Bus service for students travelling between Kuching and Samarahan, assistance with airline tickets as well as expanding further education opportunities to young people in rural areas.

Overall, they hope that Budget 2027 will be able to strengthen the well-being of people through more comprehensive and targeted assistance to those who really need it. - TVS