Kota kinabalu: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement on several key initiatives set to benefit millions of Malaysians today reflects the government’s comprehensive and significant efforts in tackling the rising cost of living faced by the people.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil stated that one of the main initiatives is the expansion of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme, which will benefit 22 million citizens aged 18 and above, with an allocation of RM2 billion. Under this programme, Fahmi explained that eligible Malaysians can redeem the one-off RM100 SARA aid credited to their MyKad at over 4,000 participating outlets nationwide to purchase essential goods, such as rice and eggs.
Fahmi emphasized that this initiative was implemented after discussions with Cabinet members, highlighting the Prime Minister’s attentiveness and awareness of the public’s concerns regarding the cost of living. He made these remarks to reporters after attending the Community Engagement Day at NADI Kampung Langkuas Kinarut, an event also attended by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, and MOH secretary-general Datuk Seri Suriani Ahmad.
In addition to the expanded SARA programme, Fahmi noted that the government is also doubling the allocation for the Rahmah Sales programme from RM300 million to RM600 million. ‘The Prime Minister has announced that each district will have at least one Rahmah Sale location. These two initiatives – SARA and Rahmah Sales – clearly show the Prime Minister’s strong focus on addressing the cost of living issue,’ he said.
Fahmi also highlighted the Prime Minister’s announcement of a reduced RON95 petrol price to RM1.99 per litre, with the mechanism to be detailed by the Ministry of Finance. He remarked that this effort reflects the government’s progress in overcoming fiscal deficit, improving governance, and restoring investor confidence over the past two and a half years, with the benefits now being returned to the people.
Looking ahead, Fahmi noted that today’s announcement is just the beginning, with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) scheduled to be tabled on July 31, followed by the MADANI Budget 2026 in October. ‘Insya-Allah, come October, the Prime Minister will present Budget 2026, where we can expect deeper, broader, and more responsive initiatives to address the challenges faced by the people,’ he added.