TEBEDU assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada has proposed that RM500 book vouchers for Sarawakian tertiary students be extended to the middle-income group.
In welcoming the new initiative announced in the 2024 State Budget to aid low-income families, he said it should include those with a monthly household income between RM2,992 and RM8,999 as well.
“It is necessary for the government to also recognise the need to mitigate the cost of living pressures among the middle income group, thus, we hope that more Sarawakians can benefit from the initiative,” he said.
“Let us be mindful that they (Sarawakian students and children) are our future leaders and they will inherit our chair and our position here,” he said when debating the 2024 State Budget in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
The proposal, he said, should include free laptops, which would be given to Sarawakian students who have been accepted into public and private higher education institutions.
On Monday, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that Sarawakian tertiary students from families with a monthly household income of RM1,500 and below – will receive free laptops and book vouchers in new initiatives under the state budget for next year.
Dr Simon also appealed to the government to revive the Agriculture Facilitation Fund to assist farmers in his constituency.
“It would be a kind gesture; while we embark on a large commercial capital venture, we should not neglect or forget the small-time farmers.
“They also need special attention and assistance because they are also the vulnerable group,” he added.
