By DayakDaily Team
SIMANGGANG, Nov 23: Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Bukit Begunan and Engkilili have proposed in their resolutions that Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is also the party president, be returned unopposed at the party convention in February next year.
In addition, the Engkilili branch, currently chaired by Senator Susan Chemerai Anding, will transition leadership to Betong member of Parliament (MP) Datuk Dr Richard Rapu for the 2024/2027 session.
Meanwhile, the Bukit Begunan branch is led by Cr Anthony Abell Chendan.
Addressing the Bukit Begunan and Engkilili branches triennial meeting at a hotel here today, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas urged PBB leaders at the branch and sub-branch levels to organise seminars or talks to publicise new assistance and welfare programmes announced in the Sarawak Budget 2025.
“These sessions should be held as soon as possible, or at the latest by the end of January 2025. It’s crucial that we disseminate information to the public on what programmes are available, where to access them, and how to apply for benefits,” he said in a statement.
He emphasised that it was vital for grassroots leaders to ensure all members are well-informed about these programmes to maximise their benefits.
“It is not enough for them to be aware; they must have a solid understanding,” he added.
Uggah highlighted several key programmes, including the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS), which has an allocation of RM450 million and aims to support low-income groups with financial assistance ranging from RM250 to RM800 annually. This programme is expected to benefit at least 850,000 individuals across Sarawak.
“The SKAS is designed to ensure that no Sarawakian is left behind. The underlying philosophy of this Budget is that there will always be food on the table for everyone,” he said.
Uggah, who is also the Bukit Saban assemblyman, noted that SKAS will complement federal financial assistance under the Rahmah Cash Contribution (STR).
Other initiatives highlighted include RM14 million for Post-Natal Assistance, RM55 million for various welfare aid programmes such as general assistance, disaster relief, and medical aid, as well as RM15 million for death assistance to ease the financial burden on families of deceased Kenyalang Gold Card holders. — DayakDaily
