Lebih 25,000 terima manfaat rakan niaga SARA di Pulau Bum-Bum

In Semporna, Malaysia, Minister for Finance II Amir Hamzah Azizan showcased goods for the benefit of the public under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) program on Bum Bum Island. (Picture Bernama) The presence of SARA business partners in Bum Bum Island, as reported by Bernama, directly benefits over 25,000 island residents who are eligible for SARA assistance.

The Minister of Finance II, Amir Hamzah Azizan, mentioned during today's meeting at the Koperasi Anugerah Hj Badli, that this is the 33rd SARA business partner in Semporna and the sole one on Bum Bum Island. "Previously, residents of Bum Bum Island who wanted to obtain goods through SARA had to take a boat to the mainland of Semporna and return with their necessities.

We have heard the difficulties faced by the community here, and that is why bringing SARA's convenience closer to them through SARA business partners in Bum Bum Island is a relief," he said. He stated to reporters after reviewing the implementation of SARA on the island nearby. Amir Hamzah expressed that the government will continue to identify areas with access constraints, ensuring the benefits of SARA reach the public more easily.

"We do not want distance, sea, or location to hinder residents from enjoying government support. This approach is not just about providing assistance, but ensuring that the assistance reaches, can be used, and benefits the lives of the people," he added. Amir Hamzah also mentioned that the government is exploring the expansion of SARA implementation to island-populated areas in Sabah.

"So, if we consider the cooperation with Mykasih Foundation, anyone who wishes to register as a SARA business partner can express their request to join the SARA system. However, we also need to ensure their eligibility and adherence to our approach in SARA, including barcode provision," he said. Regarding the visit to Bum Bum Island, Amir Hamzah said that it is a routine visit to monitor and assess the development of SARA across the country.

"It is important that I visit places that are often overlooked, but for our people, I ensure that the use of SARA spreads, including in Sabah," he concluded.