The government is exploring the possibility of expanding the range of fresh items covered under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme.
According to the Ministry of Finance, additional studies are needed to ensure any fresh items added meet quality standards, food safety regulations, and consumer protection requirements before a final decision is made.
“The government remains open to continuous suggestions to enhance the SARA programme,” the ministry said in a written reply in Dewan Negara.
This statement came in response to Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim’s inquiry about including fresh products such as chicken, meat, and vegetables under the RM100 SARA assistance scheme.
The ministry also highlighted that SARA recently added frozen foods as a new category on February 9, 2026, increasing the total categories from 14 to 15. The number of items available under the programme has grown to 140,000, up from 100,000 previously.
Separately, the Ministry of Finance addressed queries on extending SARA assistance to students in higher education from the asnaf, B40, and M40 groups. The ministry said it will first engage with the Ministry of Higher Education to assess feasibility.
“The government continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure cash assistance programmes effectively reach those in need,” the ministry added, reaffirming its commitment to helping students cope with the rising cost of living.
