The Ministry of Finance (MOF) has announced that the distribution of Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) assistance via MyKad will be extended to Sabah and Sarawak this year, instead of being limited to Peninsular Malaysia in 2024. Beginning 15 January 2025, the government will provide monthly assistance through MyKad to approximately 700,000 individuals identified as poor or hardcore poor.

The rate of assistance has also been increased under the Sara programme. Households registered in the eKasih database will receive RM2,100 annually by 2025, up from RM1,200 in 2024.

Sara assistance of RM100 per month will be credited to the recipients’ MyKad for January to March 2025, with the amount set to increase to RM200 per month starting from April 2025.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who also serves as finance minister, described Sara as a targeted aid initiative that channels a portion of the nation’s increased revenue and savings from subsidy rationalisation to those in genuine need. The use of MyKad as the distribution mechanism is designed to ensure that recipients receive tangible benefits, such as basic goods and essential food items.

Anwar also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fairness and humanitarian values, key pillars of the Madani Economic Framework. 

“This restructuring of government finances ensures that it benefits the masses. The Madani government is committed to using advanced digital technology to ensure that the distribution of assistance is done in a way that is comprehensive, and easily accessed by the people,” he said. 

Beneficiaries of the Sara programme can use their MyKad to purchase selected necessities at over 1,200 registered supermarkets and retail outlets nationwide, up from 700 in 2024. The credited funds can be used for essential items including personal hygiene products, medicines, school supplies, and basic food items.

(Source: Bernama)

• TAGS:
• Madani Economic Framework
• Ministry of Finance
• MOF
• MyKad
• Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim
• Sumbangan Asas Rahmah