RM100 Sara aid for all credited today, now covers frozen goods

The second round of the RM100 Rahmah Necessities Aid (Sara) for all Malaysians aged 18 and older can be redeemed starting today until the end of the year.

In announcing the next round of distribution, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the aid, which can be redeemed by presenting the MyKad, now also covers frozen foods.

"Dah bagi ambik je lah (Just take what we give), but if they want (frozen goods) then ok lah, we give," Anwar said in jest when commenting on requests for more items to be eligible under the Sara programme.

He said this in an address to the National Unity Ministry staff in Putrajaya today.

The Sara aid will benefit 22 million Malaysians and will be given to individuals, not households.

Meanwhile, 10,000 small grocers will also be part of the network of stores where Sara can be redeemed.

In his speech, Anwar said the aid would help those who spent on Thaipusam recently, as well as those preparing for Chinese New Year and Ramadan.

He said while the amount may seem small, the total Sara aid - including the monthly payouts to Rahmah Cash Aid (STR) recipients - comes up to RM15 billion.

He said it would not be fiscally responsible for the government to give more aid quickly.

"(The government) spends responsibly," Anwar stressed.

The first round of "Sara for all" was distributed last August in conjunction with National Day.

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