If you’ve noticed prices creeping up lately, you’re not alone. For many Malaysian families, the rising cost of daily essentials has made budgeting tougher than ever. That’s exactly why the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) 2025 was introduced — a government initiative designed to make sure no one is left struggling to afford the basics.
But here’s the catch: even though SARA runs automatically through government databases, many people still aren’t sure how it works, how to check if they qualify, or when the payments actually reach their accounts. Let’s clear all that up — in plain, practical terms.
What Exactly Is SARA 2025?
The Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) 2025 is a cashless aid program by the Malaysian government. Instead of transferring money into your bank account, the credits go directly into your MyKad via the MyKasih system.
That means you can use your MyKad to buy 14 categories of essential goods — things like rice, eggs, flour, and cooking oil — at over 4,100 participating stores across Malaysia, including Mydin, Giant, and HeroMarket.
No paperwork, no long queues, and no manual applications — the entire system works automatically using data from Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and eKasih databases.
Who’s Eligible for SARA 2025?
Eligibility for SARA 2025 is automatic, so you don’t need to apply. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Households (Miskin Tegar / Miskin eKasih): Must be Malaysian citizens listed in the eKasih database and approved under STR 2025.
- Senior Citizens (without partners): Eligible under STR 2025 categories.
- Single Individuals (21–59 years old): Must be approved under STR 2025.
This scheme mainly supports the B40 income group, giving them steady monthly relief to manage essential expenses — indirectly improving workplace focus and family well-being.
How Much Aid Do You Get?
The monthly credit amount depends on your household category:
| Category | Monthly Credit | Duration | Total Aid (RM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Households (Miskin / eKasih) | RM100 (Jan–Mar), RM200 (Apr–Dec) | 12 months | Up to 2,100 |
| Households (Non-Miskin under STR) | RM100 (Apr–Dec) | 9 months | 900 |
| Senior Citizens (Miskin / eKasih) | RM100 (Jan–Mar), RM150 (Apr–Dec) | 12 months | Up to 1,650 |
| Senior Citizens (Non-Miskin STR) | RM50 (Apr–Dec) | 9 months | 450 |
| Single Individuals | RM50 (Jan–Dec) | 12 months | 600 |
Every ringgit goes toward essential goods — nothing can be withdrawn as cash.
When Are the Payments Made?
Payments start 15 January 2025 for eKasih recipients. Others will receive credits according to their STR status between April and December 2025.
Credits are added monthly to your MyKad and can be used anytime during the year. The best part? Unused balances roll over — so you won’t lose what you don’t spend right away.
How to Check Eligibility & Balance
You can check your eligibility and SARA balance in three simple ways:
- Online:
Visit checkstatus.mykasih.net, enter your MyKad number, and complete the captcha. - SMS/WhatsApp:
Eligible recipients will receive a MyKasih message confirming activation and store details. - Through the MyKasih App:
Download from Google Play or App Store.
If you forget your PIN, you can easily reset it using the MyKasih app or call their hotline at 03-7720 1800.
Bonus: One-Off RM100 Cash Assistance (August 2025)
In addition to the monthly SARA credits, every Malaysian aged 18 and above will receive a one-time RM100 credit on 31 August 2025. This extra boost helps families handle higher year-end expenses.
For example, a family of three adults gets RM300 in total — all usable for essential purchases until 31 December 2025.
Why This Matters for Employees and Employers
While employers can’t apply on behalf of their staff, they play a key role in awareness. By helping employees check eligibility and understand how to use their MyKad credits, companies can reduce financial stress — leading to happier, more focused teams.
Employers can share links, remind staff about PIN resets, or even post MyKasih store lists on notice boards. Small steps like these make a big difference in ensuring workers get the help they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need to apply for SARA 2025?
No. Eligibility is determined automatically using STR and eKasih data.
2. Can foreign workers receive this aid?
No. SARA 2025 is only for Malaysian citizens with a valid MyKad.
3. Will this affect my salary or taxes?
Not at all. SARA is a government benefit, not taxable income.
4. How can employers assist?
Employers can guide employees on checking their eligibility and remind them to use their credits wisely before year-end.