SUPP Kuching Youth chief urges Sarawak government to provide targeted aid amid global instability

KUCHING (March 29): The Sarawak government has been urged to conduct a study and introduce targeted aid measures to ease the people’s financial burden amidst the current global instability. In making this call, Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Kuching Youth chief Nicholas Wung said the Middle East conflict-induced oil price surge, energy crisis and rising consts will have ripple effects on the global economy. “The rise in oil prices will directly increase transportation and logistics costs, which will ultimately see an increase in the prices of goods and services, putting financial pressure on the people,” he said in a statement on Saturday. During recent grassroots visits, Wung noted that many expressed concern about the global economic situation and rising prices, adding that most lacked confidence in the future economic outlook. He reiterated his call to the state government to implement assistance programmes as soon as possible to provide timely support and protection. “Sarawak is a vast and sparsely populated region, with many areas relying on transportation for basic necessities. “The impact of rising oil prices is more significant, especially for residents in rural and remote areas, whose cost of living is further increased,” he said. When formulating aid packages, Wung said the middle-income group must not be overlooked, as they too face rising living costs but are often neglected in government policies. He also highlighted the challenges faced by young people, particularly the small and medium enterprises. Wung pointed out that the Sarawak government has actively promoted energy transition in recent years, including the development of hydrogen power with the operations of Batang Ai and Bakun dams to ensure sufficient power supply. “These advantages should be translated into tangible benefits for the people, providing direct relief in terms of electricity bills, energy costs and living expenses,” he said. He added that while promoting the green energy transition, the government must also consider current pressures on livelihoods to ensure the process does not increase the people’s burden. “We must remain united in addressing current challenges. Cooperation between the government and the people will enable Sarawak to maintain stable development and social resilience,” he added.