KUCHING: Good news! The Sarawak government will launch a new package of Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang (BKSS) tomorrow.
Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian said that the announcement would be made by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“As you know, the previous BKSS 8.0 has ended, so our Premier will announce the new package tomorrow,” he said after officiating at the KKB Engineering Berhad’s (KKBEB) Charity Fun Run at its headquarters today.
Later, when he was approached by media, he claimed Abang Johari would make the BKSS 9.0 announcement in Wisma Bapa Malaysia at 9am.
Dr. Sim, however, advised waiting for the Premier to make an announcement when asked what the new aid package focuses on.
“I am not fully aware of the details. Do wait until tomorrow’s announcement,” he said.
During his work visit to Sibu two weeks ago, Dr Sim disclosed the new package would include, among others, a discount for monthly electricity and water bills.
“I have discussed with the Premier and he will make the announcement soon. This is to help people cope with the increased cost of living,” he said.
The BKSS was first introduced in March 2020 when the first movement control order (MCO) was implemented to contain the spread of COVID-19 and the various assistances were to help those affected by MCO.
In 2020, BKSS 1.0 worth RM1.15 billion was launched on March 23, BKSS 2.0 (RM1.1 billion) on April 10, BKSS 3.0 (RM300 million) on May 8 and BKSS 4.0 (RM104 million) on Oct 23.
Last year on Jan 21, RM405 million was allocated for BKSS 5.0, RM1.4 billion for BKSS 6.0 on May 28, RM800 million for BKSS 7.0 on Aug 4 and RM285.47 million for BKSS 8.0.
