Kota Kinabalu: Around 22 million Malaysians aged 18 and above, particularly from the low- and middle-income groups, will continue to receive RM100 in “Sumbangan Asas Rahmah” (Sara) aid through their MyKad to purchase groceries and essential items at thousands of retail outlets nationwide by next year.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the continuation of the aid was announced during the recent tabling of the 2026 National Budget, including the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) cash assistance.
He said both targeted aid mechanisms are part of the Madani Government’s cost-of-living support initiatives aimed at easing the financial burden of Malaysians.
“Under 2026 National Budget, the Madani Government will continue the STR and Sara programmes with a total allocation of RM15 billion, including RM2 billion to provide RM100 in Sara assistance to 22 million Malaysians.
“Starting January 2026, all STR recipients will also receive monthly Sara aid of up to RM100, or RM1,200 a year.
“For STR recipients under the e-Kasih programme, the amount will be increased to RM200 per month (total RM2,400 annually), while single individuals will receive RM50 per month (RM600 annually),” Armizan said.
He said these measures reaffirm the government’s resolve to improve the welfare of Malaysians and reduce cost-of-living pressures through more effective and targeted approaches.
“This reflects the Madani Government’s ongoing effort to uphold fairness and inclusivity by channelling assistance and subsidies to those most affected by economic challenges,” Armizan said after launching 2025 Deepavali Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme here on Monday.
He said KPDN views the 2026 National Budget tabled recently, as a significant step in strengthening the government’s targeted subsidy reform agenda under the Madani administration, shifting from broad-based subsidies to targeted financial assistance.
“These examples include the cash aid through STR and Sara aimed to reach out to the target group of B40 and M40,” he said.
He said the Federal Government first introduced cash assistance in 2012, with eligible recipients receiving up to RM500 annually, and a total allocation of RM2.6 billion.
However, beginning 2023, under the Madani Government, Armizan said these programmes were enhanced and expanded through STR and Sara, covering the B40 (low-income), lower M40 (middle-income), senior citizens, and single individuals.
In addition, he said the assistance rates have been increased based on eligibility categories, with the highest amount reaching RM4,600 annually for households earning below RM2,500 per month and having five dependent children.
