Malaysia Budget 2027: Cash Aid Allocations Increased to RM16 Billion

Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that the allocation for Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) will increase to RM16 billion for 2027, up from RM15 billion. Under this budget, all STR recipients will receive SARA payments of up to RM150 per month, totaling a maximum of RM1,800 annually, benefiting approximately nine million people.

Additionally, Malaysians aged 18 and above who are not STR recipients will receive SARA MADANI payments of RM100 twice next year: once before Aidilfitri and again to mark the nation's 70th independence anniversary. This measure is expected to benefit up to 13 million citizens, including the M40 middle-income group.

The government is also expanding the use of SARA for purchasing fresh produce at 216 FAMA-managed farmers' markets nationwide. Currently, 15,000 premises participate in the SARA program, including 6,800 small retail shops and cooperatives, with a target to increase small retailer participation to 10,000 premises by the end of next year.