MBKS rolls out RM30 grocery vouchers for 1,500 seniors, registration opens Sept 19

Wee (centre) poses with councillors after the press conference at the MBKS meeting room today on Sept 17, 2026.

By Christine T

KUCHING, Sept 17: Some 1,500 senior citizens in Kuching South will receive RM30 grocery vouchers each under a special programme by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) in conjunction with the Mooncake Festival.

MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the initiative was aimed at supporting senior citizens while fostering a more age-friendly and caring community.

The 1,500 vouchers will be distributed equally among five MBKS markets, namely Petanak Market, Stutong Community Market, Bintawa Market, Sungai Apong Market and Kenyalang Market, with 300 vouchers available at each location.

“Each eligible senior citizen is entitled to one voucher worth RM30,” he said at a press conference at the MBKS meeting room today.

Registration will take place at the respective markets on Sept 19 (Saturday), from 7.30am to 10am, on a first-come, first-served basis.

To qualify, applicants must be aged 60 and above and reside within the MBKS jurisdiction. They must also bring their MyKad for verification.

Successful applicants can redeem their vouchers on Sept 23 (Wednesday), from 7am to 11am, at the same market where they registered.

Wee stressed that senior citizens were entitled to only one voucher and could not register at multiple participating markets to obtain additional vouchers.

The vouchers can be used at participating stalls to purchase groceries and basic food items, including vegetables, fruits, fish, meat, eggs, rice, dry food and other daily necessities.

They cannot be exchanged for cash and must be used at the market where they were issued.

Wee said the programme would provide direct assistance to senior citizens while also giving a boost to local hawkers and small traders.

“Money spent through this voucher will go back into our local community, to the markets and the operators,” he said.

He said the initiative was also in keeping with the spirit of the Mooncake Festival, which celebrates reunion, togetherness and caring for one another.

Wee said MBKS would continue rolling out practical initiatives to support senior citizens, helping them remain active and connected to their communities.

“We want them to know they are valued and they are also remembered,” he said. – DayakDaily