SUNGAI PETANI: The list of essential items under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme will be updated by mid-February and will likely include fresh produce.
Political secretary to the Finance Minister Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim said there have been requests to include more items to the list, including fresh produce.
"The ministry is considering including fresh goods such as fish, chicken and others.
"We expect this to be implemented before Ramadan so that by Hari Raya Aidilfitri, it can help ease the burden on the public when purchasing these items," he said after participating in a gotong-royong programme in Surau Kampung Perak, Bukit Selambau here on Saturday (Jan 24).
He also said the government is expanding the avenues where Malaysians can use their Sara aid.
"Sara recipients will also be able to buy items at more small shops, especially in rural areas," he said.
He added that the number of Sara and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) recipients changes annually.
"The total allocation amounts to RM15bil and we are we are reviewing and releasing an updated list of recipients this month, which is why Sara distribution is slightly delayed this year to make sure it reaches those who qualify," he said. – Bernama
