By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Oct 12: The Sarawak government is allocating RM372 million next year for various programmes and welfare assistance initiatives to help the vulnerable and disadvantaged.
They include Sarawak Newborn Incentive, Post-Natal Assistance, Early Childhood and Care Institutions, Kenyalang Gold Card, Haemodialysis Assistance, I-Suri Incentives, Family Empowerment Programme (e-Life), Safe Haven for Homeless and Displaced Communities and various welfare aid programmes under the Welfare Department.
On top of these, the Sarawak government will continue to implement the Free Water Programme with an allocation of RM20.2 million and free electricity connection charges programme with an allocation of RM10 million.
The RM1.00 Flat Rate Bus Fare Programme will also be continued following an allocation of RM10 million and Fire Relief Assistance of RM19 million has also been allocated to help fire victims to repair and rebuild burnt houses which are not covered by fire insurance.
This was announced by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg while unveiling Sarawak Budget 2022 at Special Budget Meeting with Sarawak lawmakers held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.
Meanwhile, the Sarawak government will continue to expand treated water and electricity supply coverage throughout Sarawak with an allocation of RM91 million next year under Sarawak Budget 2022.
“This shall ensure provision of reliable, sustainable and resilient water and electricity supply to the people,” said Abang Johari.
Among the projects are the rehabilitation of Plant 1 at Batu Kitang, construction of a water reservoir tank at Bukit Pancur and electricity supply projects to schools which have yet to be connected to the grid.
In addition, the Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme for water-stressed areas snd Rural Electrification scheme will continue to be implemented next year under alternative funding with a provision of RM1.5 billion. — DayakDaily
