The Finance Ministry said that over 98% of recipients under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme have used their MyKad to purchase essential goods at registered premises, amounting to RM3.3 billion in spending as of 13 October 2025.
Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying said a total of 5.4 million monthly recipients under the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) scheme have been recorded, with total annual SARA eligibility valued at RM5 billion.
She added that the government’s increased allocation for STR and SARA demonstrates its commitment to strengthening the social safety net. “In 2026, RM15 billion has been allocated for both programmes compared with RM10 billion in 2024,” she said during the Dewan Rakyat session.
Lim also said the one-off SARA assistance for over 22 million Malaysian adults recorded a 75% utilisation rate, with RM1.42 billion spent to date.
She noted that SARA’s cashless system, which uses MyKad for transactions at partner stores, has been well received by recipients, including senior citizens and vulnerable groups. “The highest usage was recorded in Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak, Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah with 99% utilisation, dismissing claims of delays in rural areas,” she said.
As of October 13, there are 8,400 Rakan Niaga SARA outlets nationwide, including supermarkets, cooperatives, mini markets and rural shops.
Lim said the government remains committed to ensuring targeted cash assistance continues to reach those in need to help them cope with the rising cost of living.
