Sarawakians voice their hopes for State Budget 2027

KUCHING: From rising household expenses to healthcare, education and infrastructure, Sarawakians are calling for Budget 2027 to deliver meaningful improvements to their daily lives.

For working families, the priority is keeping essential goods affordable and easing monthly financial commitments, while senior citizens are seeking greater financial security and accessible healthcare.

Young workers, meanwhile, hope for affordable housing, better employment opportunities and stronger social protection, as others highlight the need for safer roads and improved public services.

Sarawak Tribune spoke to six individuals from different backgrounds about their expectations and the changes they hope to see.

Marzira Hanip Omar

Marzira Hanip Omar, 36

“My main hope for Budget 2027 is for the government to introduce measures that genuinely ease the rising cost of living, particularly for low- and middle-income households. The increasing prices of daily necessities such as rice, cooking oil, chicken and eggs, along with utility bills, have significantly affected household expenses. I have had to manage my finances more carefully and prioritise necessities over other spending. Although existing cash assistance and subsidies are helpful, I hope greater emphasis will be placed on price controls, targeted assistance and appropriate tax relief so families can set aside more money for savings, children’s education and emergencies.”

Saadah Ellen

Saadah Ellen, 67

“As a retiree, my greatest concern is the rising cost of daily necessities and healthcare, which continues to put pressure on our savings. I hope the government will increase financial assistance for senior citizens and keep essential goods affordable. Although government hospitals provide good services, long waiting times remain challenging for elderly patients. Subsidies for specialised medicines purchased from private pharmacies would help reduce our medical expenses. I also hope to see more elderly-friendly facilities, such as lifts and handrails, free shuttle van services to hospitals and more Senior Citizens Activity Centres (PAWE) in residential areas to support active ageing.”

Jaidah Hasbi

Jaidah Hasbi, 43

“I am confident in the government’s efforts to safeguard the people’s wellbeing and future. My main hope for Budget 2027 is for greater tax relief on essential expenses, particularly those related to technology, education and healthcare. I also hope more attention will be given to human capital development, especially strengthening basic reading, writing and arithmetic skills in primary schools, as some learning requirements appear too advanced for younger pupils. Clearer and fairer guidelines should also be introduced to support teachers in maintaining school discipline while ensuring students’ welfare and safety.”

Natalie Cherinie Johnny

Natalie Cherinie Johnny, 24

“As a young working professional, I hope Budget 2027 will address low starting salaries, affordable housing and financial security, particularly for fresh graduates, freelancers and gig workers. Some fresh graduates receive starting salary offers of between RM1,700 and RM2,500, making it difficult to meet basic living expenses. I hope the government will expand rent-to-own housing schemes with lower deposit requirements for young workers. Stronger Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) contribution incentives, protection against delayed payments to freelancers and hiring incentives for fresh graduates are also important. Continued improvements to rural infrastructure and internet connectivity would create better opportunities for young Sarawakians.”

Siti Noorfadziella Sarakawi

Siti Noorfadziella Sarakawi, 36

“My main hope for Budget 2027 is for the government to prioritise road maintenance and repairs, particularly in areas where damaged roads pose safety risks to motorists. Poorly maintained roads can cause frequent vehicle damage, resulting in higher repair costs and an unnecessary financial burden on road users. I hope sufficient allocations will be provided for regular maintenance and closer monitoring to ensure roads remain safe and in good condition, improving the daily lives of local communities.”

Masitah Abdul Rahman

Masitah Abdul Rahman, 43

“I hope Budget 2027 will provide greater investment in healthcare facilities and basic infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Although public healthcare is affordable, limited facilities, long waiting times and difficulties securing appointments remain concerns. I hope the government will upgrade clinics, increase medical personnel, extend operating hours and provide greater medicine subsidies for patients with chronic illnesses. Healthcare assistance similar to Sarawak’s Senior Citizens Health Benefits (SCHB) programme could also be expanded to B40 households, allowing eligible patients to seek treatment at private clinics when necessary. Improving rural roads, clean water, electricity and internet connectivity is equally important to narrow the development gap between urban and rural communities.”