PUTRAJAYA: The government will begin disbursing payments for the Phase Three Rahmah Cash Contribution (STR) starting Tuesday (Aug 12), allocating RM2bil to ease the cost of living for low-income households under the Madani government initiative.
In a statement Monday (Aug 11), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also Finance Minister, announced that 8.6 million recipients will receive up to RM650 each through STR Phase Three, an increase of 300,000 recipients compared to the 8.3 million beneficiaries in Phase One last January.
The rise in recipients reflects the government's decision to open new applications and appeals throughout the year to ensure aid reaches all eligible individuals.
"The year-round application and appeal process demonstrates the Madani government's commitment to its responsibility in improving the welfare of the majority, leaving no one behind in benefiting from the nation's wealth.
"More than just cash assistance, STR empowers recipients to achieve financial independence, helping us realise the equality envisioned in the Madani Economy," he said.
Anwar said that the Phase Three payments will be made to existing and newly registered recipients in the STR database, either through direct bank account credits or cash disbursements via Bank Simpanan Nasional, in stages according to their eligibility categories.
Meanwhile, the Finance Ministry stated that applicants whose names are not found in the STR database must submit an application to allow verification of their eligibility for the aid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and eligibility status checks are available on the official STR portal at bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my.- Bernama
