KUCHING (Jan 7): Sarawakians applying for the Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SKAS) faced long lines at the Urban Transformation Centre (UTC) here today due to registration difficulties.
Applicants reported issues with S Pay Global and Sarawak ID, including facial recognition errors, blocked accounts, and an insufficient number of queue slots available for assistance.
Among those affected was 68-year-old retiree Man Aho from Kampung Seruit, Serian. He recounted his struggle with the app, which failed to verify his identity card. “I think direct bank transfers would be easier and less problematic,” Man said. He added that a friend from Sri Aman also failed to secure a queue number after traveling far.
Similarly, Julia Abdullah, 65, from Kampung Sangkalan Lama, shared how her sister’s account was unexpectedly blocked. “We are not familiar with technology, so we came to seek help,” she explained. Julia urged the government to open more service centres in rural areas to ease access for elderly applicants like her sister, who relies on public transport to travel long distances.
Single mother Kaptiah Rosli, 53, from Matang Jaya, echoed the frustration. “Direct transfers into bank accounts would be more convenient,” she said, emphasizing the need to prioritize schoolchildren’s essentials.
Kaptiah compared SKAS with the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) programme, stating that the latter was easier due to its straightforward cash deposit system.
Calls for Improvement
Applicants voiced the need for enhanced accessibility and simpler processes, especially for rural communities and those unfamiliar with modern technology.
SKAS, a state government initiative, provides financial assistance through S Pay Global for purchasing essential goods at participating stores. However, funds cannot be withdrawn as cash or used for other transactions.