SARA ONE-OFF PAYMENT A CATALYST FOR YOUTH INCOME AND LOCAL ECONOMY

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- The one-off RM100 Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) for All payment to over 22 million Malaysian MyKad holders not only eases the people's burden but also creates opportunities for youth to generate income and boost the local economy.

Community Communications Department (J-KOM) Strategic Advisor Datuk Dr. Budiman Mohd Zohdi said that although the amount may not seem large, the aid can serve as starting capital for creative and proactive youths to launch small-scale businesses for supplementary income.

“The government assists as a catalyst. RM100 might be small, but if combined with siblings within a family, it can become a significant capital to start something,” he said during his appearance as a guest on the Fokus 30 programme produced by Bernama Radio here today.

He added that some youths have utilised the credit to purchase raw materials and start small businesses, such as selling cakes, snacks, and food products online or within their local communities. According to him, this approach aligns with current realities that demand the youth not only to rely on aid but also strive to increase their income.

“Life is indeed becoming more challenging, so we have two choices: either reduce expenses or increase income. Today’s youth need to be creative in seeking those opportunities,” he said.

At the same time, Budiman said the implementation of SARA provides a positive impact on the local economy as spending occurs at supermarkets, grocery stores, and registered Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

“When 22 million citizens spend that aid within the country, it certainly creates a multiplier effect for the local economy. Small traders, retailers, and suppliers also feel the benefits,” he said.

He added that the government remains attentive and open to suggestions for improvement from the public to ensure SARA’s implementation remains smooth and relevant to current needs.

Among the improvements made is the expansion of the network of premises accepting SARA transactions to include rural grocery stores, as well as adding frozen food as a basic item category to meet the needs of modern families, especially working parents.

Commenting on the use of MyKad as a cashless transaction medium, he explained that the approach aims to ensure the aid is enjoyed only by citizens and to reduce subsidy leakage.

“Due to numerous issues regarding smuggling and the use of subsidised goods by foreigners, the government chose to channel aid through MyKad because only Malaysian citizens hold a MyKad and are eligible for this assistance. This is indeed a good step that makes us feel proud to be Malaysians,” he said.

-- BERNAMA