SARA AID MAKES A REAL DIFFERENCE FOR LOW-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS

ALOR SETAR, Dec 24 (Bernama) -- The Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) assistance provided by the MADANI government is more than just store credits linked to MyKad; it is an initiative that has effectively helped ease the cost-of-living burden, particularly in meeting daily household needs.

For single mother Rashdah Ramli, 50, the RM100 monthly assistance she has received since April has been especially meaningful, as she is unemployed and relies entirely on her children for her livelihood.

“Alhamdulillah, at least I can buy rice, which is the most important item. I can also buy cooking oil and other groceries. If the amount could be increased, it would certainly be of even greater help,” she told Bernama here.

Rashdah said the SARA assistance has allowed her to allocate her limited resources for existing expenses, enabling her to manage her daily life more effectively.

Sharing a similar sentiment, kebab vendor Khairul Anwar Mohamad, 30, said the MADANI government’s aid initiatives, including Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), reflected its seriousness in safeguarding the welfare of the people.

He said the assistance is especially valuable for low-income earners living hand-to-mouth, helping to ensure their families’ basic needs are met.

“RM100 is a big help for us, especially with the rising cost of goods. The money can also be used to buy other essential items. We hope this assistance will be continued,” said Khairul Anwar, who lives in Bukit Jambul, Pendang, near here.

Meanwhile, private-sector employee Mohammad Ramli, 37, said any programme that helps reduce the people’s burden should be continued, especially amid current economic challenges.

“Alhamdulillah, this assistance truly eases our burden. Necessities such as rice and cooking oil are covered, and the remaining amount can be used to buy diapers and other items. Thank you for helping us,” he said.

On Dec 18, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said a total of 5.6 million people receive monthly SARA assistance, with total entitlements reaching RM5 billion in 2025.

He said as of Dec 17, nearly 5.6 million SARA recipients, including those whose appeals had recently been approved, had used their MyKad to purchase essential items at registered premises, reflecting a 99 per cent utilisation rate and total spending of RM4.59 billion.

Meanwhile, redemptions for the one-off RM100 SARA appreciation payment for all citizens aged 18 and above, which began in August, will end on Dec 31.

-- BERNAMA