KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 14 \u2014 The federal government has increased the annual Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) payments to RM2,100 for 2025, up from RM1,200 in 2024, benefiting impoverished households nationwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In an announcement today, the Finance Ministry said disbursements via MyKad will now also be extended to Sabah and Sarawak, ensuring that 700,000 recipients across Malaysia receive support starting January 15, 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Monthly payments will be disbursed through MyKad, beginning with RM100 from January to March and increasing to RM200 from April to December.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the increase reflects the government’s commitment to equity and efficient aid delivery through digital tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Upholding the principles of equity and human values embedded within the Madani Economic Framework, this financial restructuring ensures that its benefits are widely shared with the people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe Madani Government is committed to using advanced digital technology to ensure that assistance is distributed in an easily understandable and user-friendly manner,” he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The initiative is part of a record RM13 billion allocation in the 2025 budget for SARA and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), compared to RM10 billion last year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recipients can use the MyKad-linked funds to purchase essentials, including food, hygiene products, and school supplies, at over 1,200 registered retail outlets nationwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The programme has also been expanded to include an additional 4.7 million STR beneficiaries, raising the total number of recipients to 5.4 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Ministry of Finance has urged the public to rely on official channels for accurate information and to be wary of fraudulent links regarding the programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n