Kuala Lumpur: The extended implementation of the Basic Contribution of Rahmah (SARA) to 5.4 million recipients starting April 1 is anticipated to significantly aid the population, providing assistance for purchasing food items and basic necessities. In a recent press conference, MADANI Government Spokesperson and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil detailed the initiative’s benefits.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi stated that the amount received by recipients will range from RM50 to RM200 monthly. This new phase of SARA is credited directly to MyKad and can be utilized until December 31 for essential purchases, including basic food items, personal hygiene products, medicine, and school supplies. The Inland Revenue Board (IRB) has prepared a comprehensive FAQ and listed approximately 3,500 premises nationwide where MyKad can be used for these purchases.

The extension marks a substantial increase in recipients, surging from the previous 700,000 to 5.4 million. The Ministry of Finance announced that eligible recipients could receive up to RM2,100, a 75 percent increase from the RM1,200 provided in 2024. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that SARA is a targeted aid approach, redistributing national revenue increases and subsidy savings to those in genuine need.

Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also highlighted that distributing SARA through MyKad ensures that the intended demographic benefits from essential goods. This method aligns with the government’s commitment to effectively providing aid to the appropriate groups.