In a statement, Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii said widening the scheme would enable low-income families in Sarawak to access additional healthcare services at general practitioner (GP) clinics and avoid causing congestion at existing government hospitals and clinics.

“With the expanding budget and additional revenues, one of the best investments the government can make is to invest in public health,” he said, adding that he hoped to see it addressed in the upcoming Sarawak 2025 budget.

He proposed allocating at least RM100 million for the initiative’s initial rollout, noting that Sarawak has around 78,123 B40 households.

“Such an allocation will have a big impact on those in need. Once properly implemented, we can even look at expanding it to M40 households in Sarawak.”

He added that an improved scheme is important in ensuring all Sarawakians, especially the poor, have access to affordable, quality healthcare without financial stress.

Launched on Aug 10, the SCHB initiative currently provides cashless outpatient treatment at partner clinics for senior citizens aged 60 and above with a household income of RM7,000 or less per month.

Sarawak’s women, childhood and community wellbeing development minister Fatimah Abdullah said the government is targeting around 100,000 senior citizens in Sarawak who would be eligible to receive free medical treatment of up to RM500 per year.

The state government has allocated RM50 million for the initiative this year.