KUALA LUMPUR, October 10 — The government has announced an increase in cash assistance under the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programmes in Budget 2026 to help Malaysians cope with rising living costs.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that nearly nine million recipients will benefit, with a total allocation of RM15 billion, up from RM13 billion this year. Households earning below RM2,500 with five children will receive up to RM4,600 per year.
While individuals under the e-Kasih category will get up to RM200 per month. Single individuals will receive RM600 per year through SARA. To further support the people, 22 million Malaysians aged 18 and above will receive a RM100 SARA appreciation payment in February 2026 to aid preparations for Ramadan and Chinese New Year.
The government will also allocate RM1 billion next year to address cost-of-living pressures, including RM600 million for expanding the Payung Rahmahinitiative nationwide. Anwar noted that these increases are made possible through subsidy rationalisation efforts, including fuel subsidy reforms, ensuring that assistance is more targeted and impactful for those most in need.
