Kuching: ADUN for Pending Violet Yong Wui Wui has submitted a letter to the Minister of Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development, Sarawak, calling for the immediate tabling of a Cabinet paper to address a policy gap in the implementation of Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS).
Yong said the matter was raised during the recent Sarawak State Legislative Assembly sitting after she received feedback from constituents who, despite being eligible, were unable to access the assistance due to limitations in the current delivery mechanism.
According to her, the existing system does not adequately cater to elderly recipients who face digital barriers, including those who do not own smartphones, are unable to navigate mobile applications, or suffer from chronic illness.
“Some are bedridden or physically incapable of completing digital-based processes,” she said in a statement.
She said her letter to the Minister also enclosed the names and particulars of affected eligible SKAS recipients who have requested that the assistance be disbursed directly into their bank accounts.
“SKAS is meant to support basic living needs. No eligible elderly person should be denied aid because of age, illness, or digital limitations,” she said.
Yong stressed that while digitalisation improves efficiency, welfare policies must remain inclusive and accessible, particularly for vulnerable groups.
She therefore urged the Sarawak State Cabinet to make a policy decision to allow SKAS to be disbursed through bank transfers or other suitable non-digital channels for eligible elderly beneficiaries.
“This is a practical, secure, and compassionate solution that can be implemented in time for the 2026 rollout,” she added.
