Bantuan SARA mungkin diperluas rangkumi buah, sayuran

The Malaysian government is considering expanding the Basic Assistance Rahmah (SARA) scheme to include fresh produce like fruits and vegetables, alongside existing items such as rice, bread, canned goods and frozen desserts. Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi said the proposal will be presented to the National Life Action Sara Council (Naccol) for consideration, led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

This move is crucial to not only assist the population but also encourage healthier eating habits, Zahid said in a statement following the 18th Executive Naccol Council Meeting. Currently, the monthly SARA program covers 15 categories of essential items and benefits 8.1 million recipients, including 3.7 million households, 1.3 million elderly without partners, and 3.1 million disabled individuals.

The scheme also provides a one-time RM100 cash grant to over 22 million Malaysians aged 18 and above this year. At the meeting today, the government also reviewed the target of local white sugar, ensuring a balance between user needs and the sustainability of the local rice and sugar industry. Concerning food security, the meeting examined the implementation of 11 initiatives under the government's RESET strategy aimed at controlling private healthcare costs and expanding public access to medical treatment.

This aligns with the 2030 Sara Life Cost Action Plan, which is seen as a structured approach to managing overall living costs, rather than a standalone measure. In education, Zahid mentioned that 62,937 Form Six and university students received RM589.6 million in assistance last year under 13 high education support schemes. This aid must continue to be strengthened so that children from every stratum of society have equal opportunities to continue their education, he added.