MyKad-Based Aid Distribution Accelerates SARA Assistance to Sabah Residents
KOTA KINABALU – The Malaysian government’s move to channel the People’s Basic Subsidy Programme (SARA) aid through MyKad is proving to be a game-changer for Sabah residents, ensuring faster and more convenient access to essential support, especially compared to previous cash-based methods.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the initiative enables recipients in Sabah to use their MyKad to purchase basic necessities at 424 selected retail outlets without enduring long waits for cash disbursements — a common issue for those living in remote areas due to challenging geography.
“With this MyKad system, recipients can shop for essentials directly at participating supermarkets and even check their remaining balance on the card,” he told Bernama.
Sabah currently has the highest number of SARA recipients, with 497,815 beneficiaries and a total allocation of RM492.63 million — a clear reflection of the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in the state.
Under the enhanced SARA programme, recipients can use the credited amount to purchase 13 categories of selected items, including food staples, hygiene products, medication, and school supplies. The programme will be expanded nationwide starting April 1, covering 5.4 million people, with the monthly aid increased to RM200 based on eligibility, up from RM100 previously.
Everyday Impact on Sabahans
Mariana Galim, a 42-year-old grocery store worker from Kampung Mesilou, Kundasang, recalled the inconvenience of having to travel 20km to Ranau and endure long queues just to withdraw aid money at the bank.
“Although it’s only 20km, the hilly and narrow roads, along with heavy traffic, made it a difficult journey. Sometimes it took over an hour. Now, with MyKad, we can shop right away without all that hassle,” she said.
She also praised the flexibility of the programme, which allows her to purchase not only groceries but also school supplies for her children and medication — significantly easing the financial burden on her family, as her husband works as a tourist van driver.
Md Ahmadi Kusoi, 45, a farmer from Kampung Tampasuk, Kota Belud, echoed similar sentiments. “Previously, we had to wait a long time for cash aid. Now, with MyKad, shopping is much easier. No more worrying about losing cash or being robbed,” he said, adding that the system is not only more secure but also time-saving.
With SARA assistance, he is now able to purchase medicine that he previously could not afford due to prioritising food essentials like rice.
Meanwhile, Siti Khadijah Rusli, a 38-year-old food vendor at Tamu Donggongon in Penampang, described SARA as a “lifesaver” that has helped her manage household expenses and reinvest profits into her small business.
“For small-time traders like me, it’s hand-to-mouth living. Whatever we earn goes straight to household expenses. But with SARA easing that burden, I can now use my earnings to increase business inventory,” she said.
She added that the MyKad system has allowed her to buy key items such as formula milk for her young child and school necessities without the added stress of insufficient cash.
— BERNAMA
