KUCHING, Dec 29 2025: The state Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development has been urged to show compassionate to the elderly recipients of Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS) who do not have smartphones.
Violet Yong: Some do not own smartphones, cannot navigate mobile applications or are chronically ill, bedridden or physically incapable of completing digital processes
DAP’s Pending State Legislative Member (SLM) Violet Yong Wui Wui said she has submitted a letter to the minister Fatimah Abdullah calling for an immediate tabling of a Cabinet paper to address a policy gap in SKAS which she had raised during the recent Sarawak Legislative Assembly (SLA) sitting.
“The letter also enclosed the names and particulars of affected eligible SKAS recipients who have requested that the assistance be disbursed directly into their bank accounts,” Violet said in a statement today.
“From the feedback received, there are many senior citizens who are fully qualified for SKAS yet unable to access the aid due to digital barriers.
“Some do not own smartphones, cannot navigate mobile applications or are chronically ill, bedridden or physically incapable of completing digital processes,“ she said.
Violet said SKAS is meant to support basic living and as such no eligible elderly person should be denied aid because of age, illness or digital limitations.
“I, therefore, urge for a state Cabinet decision to allow SKAS to be disbursed through bank accounts or other suitable non-digital channels for this group of eligible elderly beneficiaries.
“This is a practical, secure and compassionate solution that can be implemented in time for the 2026 roll-out,” she added.
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