KUALA PENYU: Distribution of Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) for recipients without bank accounts in Sabah’s interior began Saturday, targeting those without access to banking services.
Federal Finance Officer (Sabah) Datuk Norali Ag Damit said the programme ensures government aid reaches recipients directly without barriers.
He said nearly 13,000 STR recipients nationwide do not have bank accounts, with 2,246 of them from Sabah’s interior areas.
“These are the main focus of this programme, which adopts a ground approach to ease access to assistance,” he said.
He added that the initiative helps reduce the high logistics costs normally borne by rural residents to claim aid.
Kuala Penyu is the first location for the rollout, covering recipients from Membakut and Menumbok, with distribution to continue across 14 interior locations until the end of June.
Norali said the programme is implemented with the cooperation of multiple agencies, including Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) and Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN), as well as the State Government and district offices.
He said BSN provides on-site account opening services, while LHDN sets up counters for eligibility checks and information updates.
He said the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry is also organising Rahmah sales to allow recipients to purchase essential goods at lower prices.
The programme will continue in Beaufort on April 26, followed by Kemabong (May 10), Nabawan, Ranau and Tongod on May 16, Matunggong (May 21), Kota Marudu, Pulau Banggi and Beluran on May 23, Pitas (June 13), Paitan (June 14), Kunak (June 20) and ending in Pulau Bum Bum, Semporna on June 21.
