Kuala lumpur: A viral WhatsApp message claiming that applications and payments for Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) assistance of RM600 for single individuals are being carried out via the platform is fake, according to the Ministry of Finance (MOF).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, in a post on its official X account, MOF stated that no STR or SARA applications or payments are conducted through WhatsApp. The public has been advised to refrain from opening suspicious links or sharing personal information with unknown parties.

The post emphasized the importance of relying solely on the Ministry of Finance's official channels for authentic and up-to-date information. This advisory comes in light of a fake message titled 'STR Bujang 2026 - Permohonan and Bayaran Bantuan SARA RM600 Untuk Yang Layak' that had gained traction on the WhatsApp platform.

The legitimate Phase 1 disbursement of STR for the current year, which commenced yesterday, involves an allocation of RM1.1 billion. It benefits 3.7 million households and 1.3 million seniors without spouses, with payments ranging from RM100 to RM500, depending on eligibility.

Additionally, monthly SARA payments ranging from RM50 to RM200 have been distributed since January 9, benefiting 8.1 million recipients. This includes 3.7 million households, 3.1 million single individuals, and 1.3 million seniors without spouses.