Fresh fruit, veg and protein could soon be added to SARA aid, says Zahid

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 13 — At the 18th Executive Committee meeting of the National Cost of Living Action Council (NACCOL), Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized the need to expand the SARA aid program to include fresh produce like fruits, vegetables, and protein. This move aims to address the growing cost of living beyond just supermarket prices, taking into account production costs, supply chains, access to nutritious food, healthcare, and education.

The meeting also discussed the soft-landing transition for local white rice, which involves subsidised rice to help vulnerable households while local farmers and producers survive. The government is actively addressing cost pressures on businesses, logistics, and agriculture, including geopolitical developments, uncertainty in the West Asia region, import compliance costs, and subsidy rationalisation affecting food production expenses.