KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 — The expansion of Rahmah Basic Aid (SARA), which will reach 5.4 million recipients starting April 1, offers crucial support to Malaysia’s B40 group as they grapple with rising living costs.
Previously distributed twice a year, SARA cash aid will now be credited monthly into recipients’ MyKad accounts, to be used for essential goods until December 31. The programme’s increase in financial aid has been welcomed by many.
In Selangor, 58-year-old single mother Kamsiah Mat Ali, who supports two university-going children, called the extended aid a lifesaver.
“I’ve used the money for necessities like rice, sardines, soap and toothpaste. Now, with the hike, I can buy more essentials and save for my children’s education,” she said.
Similarly, in Kedah, 44-year-old self-employed Osman Saad of Ayer Hitam expressed gratitude for the government’s recognition of working-class struggles.
“It’s been incredibly helpful, especially since I’m an odd-job worker and live on a modest income,” he said.
Nor Asmawati Shamsudin, 32, a food stall worker from Gurun, also voiced her appreciation, noting that while the amount may seem small to some, it makes a significant difference to her family’s daily expenses.
The Finance Ministry confirmed that eligible recipients will now receive up to RM2,100, a 75 per cent increase from RM1,200 last year.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also Finance Minister, said the programme is a targeted one that redistributes part of the nation’s increased revenue and subsidy savings to those most in need.
To ensure the aid is spent on essentials, SARA will be distributed via MyKad.
In Sarawak, academician Prof Datuk Jayum Jawan, an Academy of Sciences Malaysia fellow, commended SARA, calling it an effective way to prevent misuse.
More than 1,200 registered retail stores nationwide will accept MyKad payments for selected goods, a sharp increase from the 700 stores last year.
— Bernama
