THE Government will update the list of essential goods that can be purchased under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) scheme no later than before Ramadan this year, as the government moves to broaden the programme’s scope in response to rising living costs.
Political secretary to the Finance Minister, Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, said the ministry is reviewing proposals to include additional necessities, particularly fresh food items, following requests from various quarters.
“There are views that have been conveyed by several parties, and the ministry is studying the inclusion of other items because there are requests to include fresh goods such as fish, chicken and the like,” he said.
“We expect this to be implemented before Ramadan so that by the time Aidilfitri, or other festive seasons thereafter, it can provide some relief to the community when purchasing goods,” he added.
Muhammad Kamil was speaking after taking part in a community clean-up activity under the Menyelusuri Desa – Jelajah Kasih MADANI programme at Surau Kampung Perak near Bukit Selambau today.
He said the government is also examining the most effective mechanisms to expand the scope of SARA beyond its current list of approved items.
“We are looking at the best mechanism to expand the scope of SARA so that it is not limited only to the existing list,” he said.
He added that more small retailers, particularly in rural areas, will be allowed to participate in the programme, enabling SARA recipients to purchase essential goods from nearby shops.
Muhammad Kamil also noted that the number of SARA and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) recipients changes each year following periodic reviews.
“The total allocation amounts to RM15 billion. This month we are conducting a reassessment and issuing a new list of SARA and STR recipients,” he said.
“Every year is different. Some households move out of the poor category while new ones enter. That is why the distribution of SARA has been slightly delayed this year, to ensure that those who are eligible receive it,” he added. - January 24, 2026
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