Expanding SARA Retail Network Helps Recipients, SMEs - SAMENTA

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 19 (Bernama) -- The expansion of the retail network from 3,000 to 10,000 outlets for Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) is a significant milestone in ensuring that the RM8 billion allocated this year serves as a safety net for the 8.1 million recipients, the Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA).

In a statement today, president Datuk William Ng said the move will also support small and medium enterprise (SME) retailers.

“By tripling the number of participating outlets, the government aid will translate into immediate liquidity for SME retailers and allow them to participate in the digital economy via the MyKad-based cashless system.

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“As SAMENTA previously noted, 2026 is a ‘survival year’ for many SMEs due to rising compliance and operational costs; the integration of small shops into the SARA programme provides a much-needed revenue buffer,” he said.

He noted that when SME retailers thrive, the entire supply chain, including local wholesalers and logistics providers, benefits from the multiplier effect.

While the association supports this expansion, SAMENTA urges the Finance Ministry and Yayasan MyKasih to ensure that the onboarding process for these 7,000 additional shops is seamless and free of bureaucratic hurdles.

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“We also call for technical support, including handholding the elderly or less tech-savvy shop owners to manage the MyKad payment terminals.

“We also hope that reimbursements to these retailers are processed swiftly to maintain their cash flow,” he added.

-- BERNAMA