Study finds Kuching urban poor face multifaceted poverty challenges
Sarawak Development Institute (SDI) research shows Kuching’s urban poor suffer poverty beyond income shortfalls, with researchers urging more detailed data to capture Sarawak’s distinctive barriers.
Source: Sarawak Development Institute · July 27, 2026 at 11:00 PM · AI-assisted report
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KUALA LUMPUR, 28 JULY 2026 —
KUCHING, July 27 — The Sarawak Development Institute (SDI) has highlighted that poverty among Kuching’s urban poor extends beyond income shortages, with researchers calling for more detailed data to address Sarawak’s unique barriers. Findings from SDI’s Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) & Qualitative Study Among Urban Poor: Case Study Kuching, conducted with the Society for Kuching Urban Poor (SKUP), reveal multifaceted challenges faced by the city’s marginalised communities.
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The study, presented by Dr. Yuen Kok Leong, SDI’s Research Lead (Social Inclusivity), covers selected urban poor communities in Kuching and underscores the need for granular data to reflect Sarawak’s contextual challenges, such as geographical factors. Dr. Yuen proposed recommendations including enhanced support for naturally occurring retirement communities and better integration of existing assistance with formal welfare systems.
SKUP Chairman Mr. Peter Wong shared the society’s 10-year efforts in aiding the urban poor, regardless of background. Attendees called for broader research scope and future policy references.
SDI, established in 1995 as an autonomous non-profit research institute, aims to provide policy inputs on development issues. The institute seeks collaborators to expand the study’s coverage across Sarawak’s urban poor population.
The findings underscore the complexity of urban poverty in Sarawak, where geographical and socio-economic factors compound challenges. Further research and policy adjustments are expected to address gaps in welfare support and data collection.