Kuala lumpur: The government will intensify efforts to address the rising cost of living through targeted initiatives and comprehensive public communications, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Among the key measures already being implemented are the one-off Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) cash aid of RM100 for all Malaysians aged 18 and above, and the targeted fuel subsidy for RON95 petrol, he said.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the government has allocated over RM2 billion for the SARA programme, enabling Malaysians to purchase essential goods at more than 4,100 participating outlets nationwide. Fahmi noted that if someone chooses not to use this benefit, they can still buy basic items and donate them to others. He stated that any unused amount by January 1, 2026, will be returned to the Consolidated Fund to benefit other groups in need.

Fahmi explained the targeted RON95 fuel subsidy, emphasizing its significance to Malaysian citizens. Qualified citizens will pay around RM1.99 per litre, while non-citizens will pay the market price of RM2.50 to RM2.60. He highlighted that the actual benefit to citizens is more than 50 sen per litre, contrary to the perception of only six sen.

Furthermore, Fahmi addressed concerns about Malaysia’s investment performance, stressing that several major investment projects have moved from the planning phase to operational status. He called on Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and Bernama to work closely with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) to gather verified data and ensure accurate information on investment benefits is communicated to the public.