Kuala lumpur: The government will enhance its monitoring efforts to ensure the availability of essential goods for the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) aid program, according to Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Fahmi, who also serves as the Spokesperson for the MADANI Government, stated that the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) has confirmed that the current market supply is sufficient.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi announced at a post-Cabinet press conference that KPDN has not reported any supply issues. The ministry will intensify monitoring to ensure the stock and availability of essential goods remain problem-free. The one-off RM100 SARA aid, available to every Malaysian aged 18 and above, was launched on August 31. It is redeemable via MyKad at over 7,000 outlets nationwide until December 31, benefiting 22 million recipients with a total allocation of RM2 billion.

Fahmi revealed that the Cabinet, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, was informed of RM192.4 million worth of essential goods purchased using SARA credits as of midnight last night. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah will advise the outlets to remind customers to check necessary details before redeeming their credits.

Addressing criticisms regarding the use of MyKad for redemption, Fahmi emphasized that this method ensures the aid is used specifically for essential goods purchases. He reiterated that the RM100 aid aims to assist households in purchasing basic necessities and that the mechanism ensures the funds fulfill the program’s objective.

In response to inquiries about system disruptions that left some customers unable to use their MyKad, Fahmi advised Malaysians not to rush their spending, as the aid is valid until December 31. He suggested planning shopping trips during less busy times or visiting nearby outlets.

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