Budget 2027: SARA assistance twice a year to alleviate family burdens

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 Oct: Sharing of RM100 Mercy Foundation (SARA) donation twice next year is said to help alleviate the burden of family spending, especially in the run-up to the holiday season.

Compared to one-time payments this year, the RM200 aid will be delivered in two phases, namely before Aidilfitri and ahead of the National Day celebrations 2027.

A housewife, Zalikha Anith, 29, said giving aid to Aidilfitri was very meaningful as families also had to prepare their children for school.

"If you could have done this once a year, I think it would be better to give twice because little can help us out.

"Moreover, in the run-up to Aidilfitri, many expenses have to be made including preparing children for school. So, this help really helped", he told TVS today.

According to Zalikha, although the adequate RM100 depends on the needs of each individual, the aid is little in the way of helping families organize spending according to their ability.

Meanwhile, a private worker from Kuching, Sabrina Frida, 46, said the doubling of SARA allows families to plan purchases of necessities, especially during the holiday season.

"Usually during the holidays there are many offers and discounts. So with this help, we can add a little bit of spending to the family, including buying the kids' needs.

"For me, such assistance is beneficial, especially for those in need because the cost of living is now rising", he said.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim while presenting Budget 2027 in the Lok Sabha announced a special grant of RM100 to SARA twice next year, respectively before Aidilfitri and ahead of National Day celebrations.

- The TVs.