Step up efforts in extending aid to needy groups, S’wak minister tells community leaders

TATAU (April 9): Community leaders have been urged to play a more proactive role in ensuring government assistance reaches those in need.

Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai said grassroots leaders, particularly ‘tuai rumah’, serve as a crucial bridge between the government and rural communities.

He said their role in disseminating accurate and timely information is essential to ensure eligible recipients do not miss out on assistance such as the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara), which is channelled through the MyKad system.

“Community leaders must ensure information reaches every household, especially in rural areas, so that no one is left behind in receiving government aid,” he said at the E-Invoicing and Special Government Assistance Mobile Counter initiative at the Tatau District Office on Tuesday.

The programme, organised by the Inland Revenue Board (IRB) Sarawak in collaboration with the Tatau District Office, also witnessed the district-level launch of the Sarawak Special Assistance Scheme (Skas).

The Kakus assemblyman noted that feedback from IRB indicated that some individuals have yet to claim available assistance, likely due to lack of awareness, underscoring the importance of effective communication at the grassroots level.

Sikie added that programmes such as this not only provide direct access to services but also empower local leaders with the knowledge needed to guide their communities.

About 100 participants, including community leaders, village chiefs, small traders and contractors, took part in the event.

IRB also set up service counters to provide briefings on e-invoicing, as well as assistance with applications for the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and other tax-related matters.

The SKAS initiative, launched on March 10, aims to ease the financial burden of the people, particularly those in rural areas, with aid distributed through the SPay platform.