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Increased BUDI quotas to ease travel burden for East Malaysian states

Sabah and Sarawak will benefit from higher allocations under the BUDI scheme, addressing geographical challenges faced by residents in the East Malaysian territories. The expanded quotas acknowledge the greater distances and limited transportation infrastructure in the region.

LSN Malaysia · 5 September 2026

Increased BUDI quotas to ease travel burden for East Malaysian states

Mustapha Sakmud, the Minister for Sabah and Sarawak Affairs, has welcomed the decision to increase BUDI quotas for both East Malaysian states, describing the move as particularly significant for the region's residents.

The enhanced allocations take into account the unique geographical and infrastructural circumstances of Sabah and Sarawak, where vast distances between population centres and limited public transport options present additional challenges for those seeking to access BUDI services.

"The higher quotas are especially meaningful for East Malaysians because of longer travel distances and limited public transport," Sakmud said, highlighting how the allocation increase directly responds to logistical constraints affecting the region.

The decision is expected to improve accessibility and reduce barriers to participation in the BUDI programme for eligible residents across Sabah and Sarawak, providing relief to communities that have previously faced difficulties in utilizing available quotas due to geographical limitations.

Official details regarding the specific quota increases and implementation timeline were not immediately disclosed.