THE government’s one-off Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) appreciation aid is offering a practical lifeline to low-income households across the country, with recipients reporting meaningful relief amid rising living costs and end-of-year expenses.
The RM100 payment, which can be claimed until 31 December, complements the ongoing monthly SARA assistance, creating a financial buffer for those most in need.
For single mother Nor Rizan Muhamad, 48, from Kampung Padang Bongor, the RM100 payment has brought noticeable respite to her household budget.
“Although the sum isn't large, it is a real help. I used to budget around RM200 for necessities, but with this aid, it is now half the amount,” she told Bernama.
Nor Rizan added that the saving allows her to redirect funds towards other pressing needs, easing the persistent financial strain she faces.
Similarly, 52-year-old Sukamal Rajib described the payment as an unexpected boon. “The aid is a big help, particularly for low-income groups and those affected by current economic pressures. I hope this assistance continues and keeps up with the cost of living.
“A sincere thank you to the MADANI Government for taking care of the people’s welfare,” he said.
Despite the modest sum, the government has hailed the programme’s implementation as highly successful.
On 18 December, Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan reported that Perlis, Perak, Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Pahang, and the Federal Territory of Labuan recorded an average SARA uptake rate of nearly 100 percent.
He added that the administration had faced no significant obstacles in executing the initiative, which has involved over 20 million consumer transactions nationwide.
While critics argue that the RM100 payment is modest, for many recipients it provides a timely and practical contribution to household finances, especially during a period of heightened economic pressure. - December 27, 2025
