KUALA LUMPUR: The federal government’s Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) 2026 initiative is set to benefit millions of low-income Malaysians through expanded targeted assistance aimed at easing the rising cost of living and strengthening social protection.
Under the programme, eligible recipients — primarily households registered under the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and categorised in the B40 income group — will receive monthly aid credited directly into their MyKad accounts. The assistance can be used to purchase selected essential goods at participating retail outlets nationwide.
The scheme forms part of the government’s broader Rahmah social assistance framework, which focuses on targeted subsidies rather than blanket aid, ensuring support reaches those most in need while improving fiscal sustainability.
Monthly assistance for essential items
SARA 2026 assistance is channelled digitally, allowing recipients to pay for necessities such as food items, basic groceries, personal hygiene products and school essentials by using their MyKad at registered supermarkets and shops.
Officials said the cashless mechanism improves transparency, reduces leakages and ensures the aid is spent on essential household needs.
The programme has also been expanded in both coverage and value compared with previous years, reflecting continued efforts to help vulnerable groups cope with living expenses, especially in urban and semi-urban areas.
Supporting the B40 community
The government said SARA complements other targeted assistance programmes, including STR cash payments, electricity rebates and price control measures implemented under the Payung Rahmah initiative.
By integrating multiple assistance channels, authorities aim to provide continuous support rather than one-off payments, while also encouraging more efficient subsidy delivery.
Retail and economic impact
Participating retailers across Malaysia, including major supermarket chains and selected local grocery stores, are part of the SARA ecosystem. The initiative not only assists households but also stimulates local economic activity by directing spending to essential goods within communities.
Economists note that targeted consumption assistance helps stabilise household purchasing power without distorting market pricing structures.
How recipients can check eligibility
Eligible recipients can verify their status and participating stores through official government assistance portals or at nearby welfare offices. Registration is generally linked to existing STR records, meaning most qualified households are automatically enrolled.
The government said SARA 2026 will continue to be monitored and improved to ensure effective delivery, with the long-term goal of building a more resilient and inclusive social safety net for Malaysians facing cost-of-living pressures.
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