The Sarawak State Government has allocated RM500,000 as venture capital for micro entrepreneurs who intend to start their own businesses or are in need of start-up capital.
Chief Minister YAB Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg revealed the allocation during his remarks before officiating the Sarawak Welfare Carnival 2017 at the Majma’ Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Complex (Islamic Complex), Kuching on Friday, 27th October 2017.
He elaborated that the fund would be managed by the Ministry of Welfare Community Well Being, Women, Family and Childhood Development through the Sarawak Welfare Department, which would then distribute among entrepreneurs.
The allocation was announced on the same day Prime Minister YAB Datuk Patinggi Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak tabled the 2018 Budget in Kuala Lumpur, where the Federal Government has allocated RM1.7 billion for the welfare of senior citizens, the disabled and children.
In her remarks, Minister of Welfare Community Well Being, Women, Family and Childhood Development YB Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah was thankful for the announcement, particularly on the increase of RM50 to monthly allowances for senior citizens to RM350, as well as an additional RM50 for the disabled and their caretakers to their current monthly allowances.
Meanwhile, the Sarawak Welfare Carnival 2017 was held on 25th-28th October 2017 in conjunction with the National Welfare Month 2017 to strengthen and expand collaborations among various parties in the provision and delivery of welfare services to communities in the State.
It also aimed to recognise roles and contributions of senior citizens, the disabled and children, along with public and private sectors and non-governmental organisations, among many others; and strengthen entrepreneurial knowledge and experience for micro entrepreneurs.
Various activities took place throughout the event, including exhibitions, demonstrations, competitions participated by senior citizens, the disabled and children, and promotional sales of products and services by micro entrepreneurs.
