KUALA LUMPUR (March 5): The government is still conducting further studies to expand the category of fresh items under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme, according to the Ministry of Finance (MOF). The ministry said that for fresh items, the government is carrying out additional research to ensure that quality, food safety, and consumer protection are properly safeguarded before any final decision is made. “The government is open to continuous suggestions and input to improve the existing Sara programme. The MOF said this in response to a question from Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim on whether the ministry plans to expand all basic necessities under the RM100 Sara assistance, including fresh items such as chicken, meat, and vegetables. Meanwhile, the ministry said the government will continue to examine and study the expansion of Sara assistance to students in higher education institutions (IPT) from the asnaf, B40, and M40 groups, by first holding engagement sessions with the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).

Source: The Edge Markets March 05, 2026 15:08 UTC