Efforts underway to allow SKAS spending at Sibu Central Market

SIBU (April 5): Efforts are currently underway to enable the Sarawak Basic Needs Contribution (SKAS) to be used at Sibu Central Market here, in a move to extend the aid to small traders, particularly hawkers and local vendors.

Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng said the initiative would help ensure SKAS spending is not confined to large supermarkets but also reaches traditional markets, which remain a key source of income for many families.

“At present, the use of SKAS is still limited to supermarkets, causing consumer spending to be more focused on those premises compared to local markets such as Sibu Central Market.

“If SKAS can be used here, hawkers will also enjoy the same benefits as supermarkets. This will, in turn, help boost their businesses,” he said after officiating the launch of the 2026 Annual Flag Sale of the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Sibu branch at Sibu Central Market on Saturday.

Chieng said initial steps have been taken, including the opening of a special registration counter last week, in collaboration with the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) and digital payment service provider S Pay Global.

The counter aims to assist eligible hawkers in registering as SKAS merchants, allowing transactions using the aid to be carried out at the market in the future.

He also voiced concern over a decline in visitor numbers at Sibu Central Market, even during festive seasons.

“Usually during periods like this, including Good Friday, Easter and Qing Ming celebrations, the market would be crowded with customers.

“However, this morning we observed fewer visitors than usual,” he said.

Chieng stressed the need for more comprehensive strategies to attract the public, including organising activities and intensifying promotional efforts.

“This market houses more than 1,000 stalls, which means over 1,000 families depend on it for their livelihood.

“Therefore, efforts to attract more customers are very important,” he added.

Meanwhile, Chieng called on youths to be more actively involved in uniformed bodies and voluntary activities to build leadership skills and foster a caring spirit.

He said participants in organisations such as the MRCS can help shape young people into resilient, disciplined and responsible individuals.

“In the past, we were very active in participating in various activities including sports and clubs.

“However, nowadays, many young people prefer to stay at home after school. This situation needs to change,” he said.

He also commended volunteer groups, especially MRCS Sibu, for their readiness to assist during emergencies such as fires and floods.

“In emergency situations, volunteer groups are often among the first to arrive at the scene to offer help, sometimes even earlier than other parties,” he said.

Chieng added that involvement in volunteer organisations not only equips youths with first aid skills but also instils leadership values and teamwork.

He urged the public to continue supporting MRCS efforts through contributions, noting that even small donations can make a significant impact on youth development.

“Through collective contributions, we can achieve something great. It is not just about fundraising, but also about nurturing a spirit of togetherness and care within the community,” he said.

Funds raised, he added, will be used to train more members, especially, students, in first aid and personal development to prepare them for emergencies and future leadership roles.

Also present was MRCS Sibu branch chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee.