THE government’s decision to maintain and enhance cash assistance through the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) under Budget 2026 has been widely welcomed by beneficiaries, who say the measures will offer much-needed relief amid rising prices of basic goods.
For Norashikin Abu Bakar, a small trader and mother of four from Taman Keramat, the monthly SARA payments are more than just grocery assistance.
“The aid provided by the government acts as additional household income,” she told Harian Metro. “It enables us to buy nutritious food for the children, and with the monthly allowance, we can even allocate some funds for tuition and education needs.”
Norashikin’s husband, a lorry driver, supports the family, and both acknowledge the STR and SARA have been crucial in managing rising living costs.
She added, “I hope the government will also act firmly against irresponsible traders who arbitrarily raise prices.”
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in tabling Budget 2026 in Parliament, announced the continuation of STR and SARA, which collectively amount to RM15 billion — funded through savings from diesel and RON95 fuel subsidies.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, added that beginning mid-February 2026, RM100 in monthly SARA assistance will be disbursed to 22 million Malaysians aged 18 and above, coinciding with the lead-up to Ramadan and Chinese New Year.
The fourth phase of STR 2025 payments, worth RM2 billion and initially scheduled for November, has also been brought forward and will be paid starting 18 October.
In addition, a 50% toll discount has been approved for two days over the Deepavali period, providing further relief to travelling Malaysians.
Kalidevi Mogan, a private sector employee and mother to two special-needs children, said the early disbursement was particularly helpful during the festive season.
“This aid means a great deal to us. It’s not only about easing our daily spending but also allows my family to celebrate Deepavali with more peace and joy,” she said.
Under the revised framework, all nine million STR recipients will receive SARA of up to RM100 monthly or RM1,200 a year. Meanwhile, one million STR recipients under the e-Kasih programmewill be eligible for up to RM200 monthly or RM2,400 annually.
Single individuals will receive RM600 annually, or RM50 per month through SARA, bringing the maximum total support for a family with five children and income below RM2,500 to RM4,600.
For senior citizen Yamin Zahari, 62, the assistance offers a sense of security since retiring.
“I thank the government for this support. It helps cover daily expenses. But I suggest the amount be raised to RM200 or even RM250 a month, considering how expensive daily necessities have become,” he said, also urging for a standardised distribution mechanism via direct bank transfers and broader eligibility for essential purchases.
For young urban dwellers like 28-year-old Muhammad Fiqry Indragunawan, who works as a clerk and lives alone in Keramat after losing both parents, the aid is modest but meaningful.
“It’s a small but valuable boost, especially as a single person managing life in the city. It also allows me to support other family members when needed,” he said. - October 15, 2025
