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The Malaysian government has officially confirmed that Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) Phase 1 for 2026 will begin disbursement on 20 January 2026 (Tuesday). The announcement was made by Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, during the New Year 2026 Address on 5 January 2026.
All eligible Malaysians are advised to check their status via the official STR portal:
👉 https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my/
Key STR & SARA 2026 Payment Highlights
Here’s what Malaysians can expect in early 2026:
STR Phase 1 2026
- Up to RM500
- Payments begin: 20 January 2026
- Paid in stages
- Payment methods:
- Direct bank credit
- Cash payment at Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) for those without bank accounts
SARA Monthly Assistance (Credited via MyKad)
Married couples & senior citizens:
Up to RM200 monthly, starting 9 January 2026
Single individuals:
Monthly SARA credited from 16 January 2026
SARA Untuk Semua – RM100 One-Off Assistance
- 22 million Malaysians will receive RM100
- Credited via MyKad
- Starts 9 February 2026
- Aimed to ease expenses ahead of Ramadan and Chinese New Year
Additional Government Updates
(Nearly RM2.1 billion spent)
- Shelter home residents
- Persons with disabilities (OKU)
- Special-needs students
- Medical device purchases for vulnerable groups
- University students via the Dapur Siswa programme
❗ STR Appeal (Rayuan) for Unsuccessful Applicants
If your STR Phase 1 application was not approved, don’t worry:
Appeal period:
12 January – 13 February 2026
🔍 How to Check STR 2026 Status Online
Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the STR 2026 Official Portal
- Log in using your MyKad number and registered password
- Click “Semakan Status & Pembayaran”
- Your approval status will be displayed
- For payment details, check “Applicant Information”
🏦 Payment Collection Details
With bank account:
Funds will be credited automatically starting 20 January 2026
Without bank account:
Cash payment can be collected at BSN
👉 Bring your MyKad for verification
👉 Only registered representatives are allowed to collect on behalf of recipients
⚠️ Important Reminder
- Apply only through the official STR website
- Be cautious of scams and fake assistance offers
- New STR applications are open all year round
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