26th January 2026 - 2 min read
The list of essential items under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah programme is expected to be updated by Ramadan this year. The planned update could allow recipients to use their aid for a wider range of daily necessities, which may help households better manage food spending during festive periods.
Fresh Food Items Under Consideration
The Ministry of Finance is reviewing requests to expand the current list of eligible items. Proposals include adding fresh food such as fish, chicken, and other basic produce that form part of everyday meals for many families.
According to the political secretary to the finance minister, Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, the aim is to have the updated list in place before Ramadan. This would allow recipients to benefit from the changes ahead of Aidilfitri and other upcoming celebrations, when household expenses typically rise.
Broader Use Of SARA For Daily Spending
Beyond expanding the item list, the government is also reviewing how SARA can be used more flexibly. The scope of the programme is not expected to remain limited to the current categories of essentials.
There are also plans to allow SARA recipients to make purchases at more small shops, particularly in rural areas. This could improve access for households that do not live near larger retail outlets and help support local businesses at the same time.
Recipient List Reviewed Annually
The number of SARA and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah recipients changes each year. The total allocation for both programmes stands at RM15 billion, and an updated list of recipients is being reviewed and released this month.
Eligibility is reassessed annually, as some households move out of the low-income category while others become newly eligible. This review process has resulted in a slight delay in SARA distribution this year, as the government works to ensure assistance reaches those who qualify.
If implemented as planned, the expanded SARA list would allow recipients to use their aid for a wider range of essential food purchases. The updates are still under development, with implementation targeted before Ramadan, and recipients are advised to follow official announcements on the revised item list and participating shops.
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Samuel writes about personal finance and financial news, focusing on how banking updates, policies, and promotions affect everyday money decisions. He enjoys making complicated financial topics easier to follow. Outside of writing, he spends his time watching TV shows and occasionally convincing himself he will only watch one episode.
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