OVER the last three weeks, eligible Malaysians have been able to start using the RM100 one-off Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) through their MyKad.
Many have used it to buy essentials such as rice and cooking oil, but some have claimed online that alcoholic beverages were also on the approved items list.
Is this true?
Verdict:
FALSE
Malaysians can only use their Sara aid for certain approved daily essentials, said the Finance Ministry, but not for alcoholic beverages.
The approved items list include food items such as: rice, eggs, bread, biscuits, cooking oil, instant noodles, biscuits, tinned foods, salt and sauces.
For beverages, only milk, tea and coffee make the list.
You can also claim self-care products such as soap, toothpaste and women's hygiene products.
Certain medicines, cleaning products and school necessities are also on the list.
A more comprehensive list can be found at: https:/sara.gov.my.
The finance Ministry urged Malaysians to be wary of what they see or hear on social media regarding the Sara programme and to always refer to official channels.
