Sebastian Ting States that Sarawak Government Prioritises Elderly Welfare

suppadmin | August 18, 2025

Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting, said the state government remains committed to the welfare of senior citizens through initiatives such as the Kenyalang Gold Card and the Sarawak Senior Citizens Health Assistance Scheme.

He said the programmes reflect the government’s focus on health and social well-being, adding that the strong response from the public shows their relevance.

“In collaboration with the Sarawak Welfare Department, the first day of the application exercise recorded 835 applications for the Kenyalang Gold Card and 775 for the health assistance scheme. By 3 pm on the second day, the number of applications had already surpassed 1,000,” he said.

According to Ting, the Kenyalang Gold Card provides citizens aged 60 and above with exclusive benefits and privileges from government agencies and participating businesses. The health assistance scheme, meanwhile, offers an annual subsidy of RM500 for medical expenses to ease financial pressures on the elderly.

“These people-oriented initiatives not only provide economic support but also ensure social care is shared by all. In the post-pandemic period, their importance is even greater,” he said.

Ting assured that the state government will continue to strengthen grassroots services so that assistance reaches those who need it most. He also encouraged the public to make full use of the benefits provided and called on more organisations and businesses to participate in building a caring community.