KUNAK: Supermarket operators are urged to open at least two service counters for the redemption of essential goods under the “Sumbangan Asas Rahmah” (SARa) cashless aid programme, in a bid to ease congestion and reduce waiting time for recipients.
The call was made by the President of the Sabah Consumers Front Association (CFOS), Nordin Thani, following reports of long queues at a local supermarket on
Tuesday, where only one counter was dedicated to SARa aid redemptions.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});“We have received complaints from consumers in the district who were forced to wait for over an hour and a half due to the limited number of counters,” Nordin said, adding that CFOS is closely monitoring the situation.
The SARa MyKasih initiative, launched in April, allows eligible recipients to redeem RM100 worth of essential goods per month using their MyKad at participating retail outlets. The assistance will continue monthly until December.
Although consumers may redeem their aid at any participating supermarket, many have encountered delays at premises that only provide a single counter for the service.
Local resident Zulia, speaking on behalf of affected consumers, also appealed to supermarket operators to consider the needs of elderly and adult recipients. “We hope that at least two counters will be made available to minimise long queues, especially during peak hours,” she said.
CFOS reiterated its call for all participating retailers to assess customer volume and adjust counter availability accordingly, to ensure a more efficient and dignified redemption experience for beneficiaries.
