Kuala lumpur: The one-off RM100 cash assistance to be disbursed to all Malaysian adults through MyKad under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme is a targeted approach that ensures transparency so that the aid reaches the people directly, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo highlighted that the mechanism allows every Malaysian aged 18 and above to use the assistance to purchase essential items while preventing unnecessary or harmful spending. She emphasized that SARA has clear benefits as it can be used specifically for purchasing basic necessities, excluding non-essential items like cigarettes and alcohol. She expressed confidence that this initiative would truly benefit all Malaysians aged 18 and above.
Teo's remarks came in response to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's special announcement on the initiative in conjunction with the National Day 2025, which involves an allocation of RM2 billion and will benefit over 22 million people in the country.
Meanwhile, Teo also welcomed the doubling of the Rahmah MADANI Sales programme allocation from RM300 million to RM600 million this year. She stated this would allow more people, particularly those in the B40 group, to access essential goods at lower prices. She pointed out that prices at Rahmah MADANI Sales are significantly lower, citing an example of instant noodles being sold at RM3.70 compared to higher prices in regular supermarkets.
Additionally, Teo praised the government's plan to set the price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre through a fuel subsidy targeting mechanism. She noted that this new price ensures a clear distinction between locals and foreigners, with only Malaysians benefiting from the subsidised rate. She expressed that this move would benefit all Malaysians.
Earlier today, Anwar announced several key initiatives as part of the MADANI Government's appreciation for the people. These include the one-off RM100 SARA aid via MyKad for all Malaysian adults, postponement of toll rate hikes for 10 highways, and a lower subsidised RON95 petrol price of RM1.99 per litre.