Sarawak raises SKAS aid to RM1,100 for households, RM600 for seniors, RM375 for singles

Abang Johari announcing Special Cash Assistance during a press conference at Satria Pertiwi Complex on April 16, 2026.

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, April 14: The Sarawak government has announced an increased Special Cash Assistance under the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS), raising support for households to RM1,100, senior citizens to RM600, and single individuals to RM375, as part of efforts to cushion the rising cost of living linked to global economic pressures arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the decision reflects the State government’s continued commitment under the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) administration to protect the welfare of Sarawakians, particularly low- and middle-income groups facing higher living costs.

“Under the revised SKAS 2026 allocation, households will now receive RM1,100, up from RM950; senior citizens will receive RM600, increased from RM500; and single individuals will receive RM375, up from RM300,” he said when announcing the measure during a press conference after chairing the State Cabinet Meeting at Satria Pertiwi Complex, which was broadcast live via TVS and Ukas channels, today.

Abang Johari said nearly 900,000 eligible recipients are expected to benefit from the assistance, based on the 2026 Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) recipient database.

He added that the distribution will be carried out in three phases throughout 2026, with the first phase already implemented in March, followed by the second phase scheduled for May, and the final phase in November.

“The increase in SKAS payouts involves an additional financial implication of RM136.2 million, bringing the total allocation for the programme to RM680 million in 2026, up from RM543 million previously,” he disclosed.

Abang Johari noted that the protracted conflict in West Asia has triggered a global energy and economic ripple effect, driving up costs in key sectors such as fuel surcharges for air travel, transportation, fertiliser and agricultural inputs, which in turn has pushed up prices of food and daily essentials.

“Global uncertainties have had a direct and indirect impact on the cost of living. The Sarawak government recognises these pressures and is taking proactive steps to ensure the people are not left behind.

“This is part of our continued commitment to ensure the wellbeing of the people, especially in managing the pressures of global economic uncertainty,” he said. — DayakDaily