The government may withdraw financial assistance, including Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah, if applicants submit inaccurate or misleading information, according to the Ministry of Finance.

The ministry said all STR applications are subject to multiple verification and review processes involving relevant government agencies to assess eligibility.

Regular Checks Cover Income, Assets, And Overseas Records

For new applicants, the ministry said checks go beyond income thresholds. Ongoing quarterly reviews are conducted to assess property and vehicle ownership, business interests, and records of working or residing abroad.

The ministry stressed that applicants are responsible for ensuring all information provided is accurate and truthful. If false or inaccurate details are identified, legal action may be taken, and the government reserves the right to withdraw any aid that has already been approved.

Clarification Follows Claims Circulating Online

The clarification comes after social media posts alleged that an individual was eligible for STR despite earning rental income from six properties that exceeded the qualifying income threshold.

The ministry did not comment on specific cases but reiterated that eligibility is determined through layered checks and ongoing monitoring.

STR And Sara Allocation Reaches RM15 Billion This Year

The Ministry of Finance said the total allocation for STR and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah this year stands at RM15 billion, the largest allocation for cash assistance in the federal government’s history.

The increase follows the restructuring of STR and Sara under the Madani government’s initiatives to address cost-of-living pressures more effectively.

Monthly Sara And Quarterly STR Support Explained

Under the updated structure, more than 8 million people are eligible to receive Sara on a monthly basis. This includes around 400,000 individuals from the poor and hardcore poor categories registered under the eKasih database, positioning Sara as a form of ongoing basic assistance.

STR, meanwhile, is provided quarterly as additional support. It is targeted at households and single older persons individuals without a spouse who earn RM5,000 or less per month, including those registered as poor or hardcore poor under eKasih.

The ministry said this combined approach is intended to deliver targeted aid in a more stable and organised manner, while providing extra financial support during peak periods such as festive seasons.

The ministry added that RM1.1 billion has been allocated for STR Phase One this year, with payments scheduled to begin next Tuesday, January 19 2025. 

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