Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that the Basic Rahmah Contribution (SARA) program of RM100 for every citizen aged 18 and above will be credited on February 9.
The aid targets 22 million recipients and is specifically directed to help prepare for Ramadan and Chinese New Year.
Anwar also announced that for the hardcore poor, SARA contributions will be credited earlier on January 9.
Meanwhile, the first phase of the Sumbangan Tanai Rahmah (STR) program with a value of up to RM500 will be credited on January 20.
This move clearly shows the government's focus on the low-income group, but it also raises questions about the effectiveness of targeted assistance when the number of recipients is too large and the period of assistance is staggered.
