How Malaysia distributes billions in without cash
Opinion
13 Oct 2026 • 3:00 PM MYT

Malaysia is allocating RM15 billion to STR and SARA this year, rising to RM16 billion in 2027.
SARA is impressive because it can control what aid is spent on, right down to the individual product.
But once billions can only be spent at selected merchants, another question appears: should more convenience stores and pharmacies be included too?
