Manggatal baru: The government is expanding the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme by increasing the number of participating retail outlets that accept MyKad transactions, including in rural and remote areas, to make it easier for recipients to obtain essential goods.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan stated that more than 13,500 shops nationwide are now registered under the SARA programme, including over 6,500 sundry shops. The initiative aims to increase the number of these sundry shops to 10,000 nationwide. In Sabah alone, 1,493 shops are currently participating, enabling redemptions across the state. This expansion is not restricted to major towns but extends to villages and interior areas to ease access for eligible recipients.

The use of MyKad as the delivery mechanism allows beneficiaries to directly redeem essential items at participating outlets, enhancing the accessibility of the programme. Amir Hamzah highlighted that the initiative not only supports those in need but also benefits local entrepreneurs by increasing sales through the SARA retail network. When products are included under the programme, sales improve, which helps to stimulate local entrepreneurship.

Currently, more than 150,000 product items are available under the programme nationwide. The government plans to further expand both the product range and local business participation. Efforts to widen participation among small retailers include exploring ways to reduce onboarding costs and providing more accessible point-of-sale (POS) systems.

Amir Hamzah also mentioned that the government continuously evaluates the possibility of expanding eligible items, such as fresh produce, under SARA. However, fresh items are not yet included as the government must ensure the quality of goods provided to recipients.