Chiew Choon Man: Aid Program Improves Living Standards of Vulnerable Families and Calls on the Public to Make Good Use of SARA Benefits

(MIRI, 8th) Miri MPChiew Choon Man pointed out that the government’s “Basic Care Assistance Fund” (Sumbangan Asas Rahmah, or SARA) program has effectively alleviated the living burden of the B40 low-income group, especially for children and families like 13-year-old Rizal.

Chiew Choon Man shared Rizal's story on his Facebook, explaining that due to the parents' inability to afford housing, they live separately in workers' dormitories, forcing Rizal to live with his aging grandfather, Rosli. Rosli has long since exhausted his pension and now relies on his son's support and government aid, living in poverty.

“Their situation reflects the real plight of the B40 group. Fortunately, the unity government launched the SARA assistance program, allowing E-Kasih families to receive RM200 in aid monthly, and STR list families to receive RM100. This assistance benefits over 5.4 million low-income individuals nationwide.”

He stated that beneficiaries only need to present their ID card to purchase designated categories of goods, such as rice, eggs, canned food, and cooking oil, at over 1,200 designated retail stores nationwide.

Chiew Choon Man said that to ensure more people understand and use this benefit, he has personally visited residential areas and set up mobile consultation kiosks.

“To the affluent, this assistance may seem insignificant, but for Rizal's family, this monthly aid can result in more nutritious food. Previously, his grandfather could only provide instant noodles, but now they can at least eat chicken, vegetables, and enjoy delicious meals during festivals.”

He thanked the unity government for caring about the welfare of all people regardless of background, especially promoting the philosophy of “People First, Fair Treatment” advocated by Prime Minister Anwar. Zhao Junwen also took the opportunity to extend his greetings for Hari Raya.