STR recipients hope for more aid in Budget

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 20, 2026

Recipients of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) aid programs are calling on the Malaysian government to increase the cash assistance and expand eligible food items to include fresh produce in the 2027 Budget. Economic experts warn that while such enhancements could alleviate financial strain for vulnerable households, any increases will need to be carefully balanced against fiscal constraints and rising subsidy costs.

Recipients of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) cash aid program are urging the Malaysian government to increase the amount of assistance and expand the range of eligible food items under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) scheme in the forthcoming 2027 Budget.

Among those voicing concerns is Nor Asmah Muhamad, a kindergarten teaching assistant and mother of five. She noted that while her household is entitled to RM2,500 through STR, the funds typically get spent quickly upon disbursement, leaving little room for savings. She also expressed hope that the government would continue providing the one-off RM100 payment next year, which many have found helpful in managing grocery expenses.

Similarly, recipients of the monthly Sara aid are advocating for broader inclusion of fresh food products. K. Kavitha, a 65-year-old retiree, suggested that vegetables, chicken, and fish should be added to the list of redeemable items, emphasizing the nutritional importance of fresh produce compared to canned goods. Technician Lim Chong Sen mentioned that incorporating fresh goods would promote a more balanced diet, as protein sources like meat and fish are often financially out of reach for some households.

Economic experts anticipate adjustments to social assistance programs in Budget 2027 to address ongoing cost-of-living challenges. Sunway University economics professor Dr. Yeah Kim Leng highlighted that despite positive economic performance, many Malaysians still face financial difficulties. He pointed to the effectiveness of cash transfers such as MySara and STR in reaching target beneficiaries quickly and suggested that increases in both cash and in-kind aid are likely to align with the government’s fiscal capacity and social spending priorities.

On the fiscal management front, Bank Muamalat Malaysia’s chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid cautioned that any increase in STR disbursements would depend heavily on maintaining targeted assistance. He noted that optimizing limited government resources is critical, especially as subsidies on fuel are expected to rise in response to elevated global crude oil prices.

As Budget 2027 preparations continue, stakeholders from both the public and economic spheres are urging the government to balance social welfare needs with fiscal prudence to help ease the financial burden on vulnerable households.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.