KUCHING: The initiative to provide automated teller machines (ATM) and cash recycling machines (CRM) at the Balingian Sub-District Office will be carried out under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala, said that for now, the Sarawak Government, together with Bank Negara Malaysia, is implementing the placement of ATMs and CRMs at District and Sub-District Offices throughout Sarawak, particularly in areas that still do not have access to banking services.

“To date, the installation of ATMs and CRMs has been completed at 19 District and Sub-District Offices in the first phase.

“The second phase of this initiative will be implemented under 13MP,” he said in response to a question from Balingian Assemblyman Abdul Yakub during the Third Meeting of the Fourth Term of the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting on Friday.

A CRM is a machine that functions as a combination of an ATM and a cash deposit machine (CDM).

He added that several criteria must be considered before approval is given for the placement and provision of ATM/CRM services at District and Sub-District Offices in Sarawak.

“These criteria include the requirement that the ATM/CRM be located within the District or Sub-District Office building as part of the Sarawak Government’s service.

“The office building must also be in good and safe condition and equipped with essential utilities, particularly telecommunications services.

“In addition, the area must have proper road access to ensure the safe and secure replenishment of cash for the ATM/CRM,” he said.-UKASnews

Reporter : Mia Amira
Photographer : Hazrin Sunaini
Translator : Uilson Ng