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The government plans to increase payouts under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) assistance scheme in the near future to help ease the rising cost of living, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced
Speaking at a Pakatan Harapan campaign rally held in conjunction with the Negeri Sembilan state election, Anwar said the decision was driven by public feedback on persistent economic pressures, as reported by Free Malaysia Today.
While acknowledging existing financial relief measures, such as the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) initiative and civil service bonuses announced by Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, Anwar said many households continue to face financial challenges.
"Although we have provided Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah and SARA, and in Negeri Sembilan, Aminuddin has given a substantial bonus to civil servants, have all the problems been resolved? Not yet," Anwar said.
"That is why we have listened to the people's concerns and, Insya-Allah, we will further increase SARA for everyone in the near future," he added.
Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, said the government regularly reviews opportunities to expand welfare assistance when the country's economic performance allows
He added that he has held preliminary discussions with Treasury Secretary-General Tan Sri Johan Mahmood Merican to evaluate a possible increase in aid during preparations for the upcoming national budget.
