If you’re a Malaysian aged 18 and above, here’s some good news — you’re getting a one-off RM100 cash handout directly through your MyKad. This was officially announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in a televised address as part of a nationwide effort to ease the cost-of-living burden for all Malaysians.
What makes this announcement special to me? It’s the first time in Malaysia’s history that every adult citizen (aged 18 and above) — regardless of income group — will receive cash assistance under the government’s Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme. And the best part? It’s not by household — it’s individual. That means if you and your three other adult family members live under the same roof, that’s RM400 total for your household.
I was already eligible to receive a monthly allowance under the SARA programme, so I thought it’d be helpful to share my experience on how to make the most of the aid using the MyKasih app.
The one-off RM100 cash aid will be made available starting 31 August 2025 and must be spent by 31 December 2025. However, it’s not withdrawable cash — it can only be used to purchase essential items at over 4,100 participating grocery stores and supermarkets nationwide.
Any unspent amount after December 31 will be returned to the government and channeled into future aid programmes for vulnerable groups.
What Can You Buy with the one-off RM100 SARA Aid?
The RM100 can be used for basic goods only. Here’s a list of eligible categories under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme:
- Rice, bread, noodles, biscuits, eggs, flour
- Cooking oil and basic seasonings
- Milk, beverages, and canned food
- Personal hygiene items like toothpaste, soap, sanitary pads
- Household cleaning items such as detergent and dishwashing liquid
- Over-the-counter medicine including paracetamol and cough syrup
- School supplies including stationery and basic shoes
You cannot use the RM100 to purchase snacks, soft drinks, fast food, frozen meat without labels, or premium/imported goods. Just look out for the MyKasih label or scan the barcode using the app to confirm if the item is eligible.
How to Use the RM100 Cash Aid at the Store
- Visit any participating grocery store or supermarket
- Choose items from the approved list
- Inform the cashier you’re paying via MyKasih
- Present your MyKad and key in your 6-digit PIN
- The eligible amount will be deducted directly from your RM100 balance
- Keep the receipt to track your usage
The MyKasih system will automatically reject ineligible items, so you won’t accidentally overspend on the wrong products.
Step-by-Step How to Check Eligible Items on the MyKasih App
Step 1: Download the MyKasih App
- Go to Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone)
- Search for MyKasih
- Install and open the app
(App name: MyKasih – official app by MyKasih Foundation)
Step 2: Log in or Register
- Register using your MyKad number
- Set a 6-digit PIN for security (For first time login, temporary PIN is the first 6-digits of your MyKad)
- If you’re already registered, just log in with your existing MyKad and PIN
Step 3: Go to the Barcode Scanner Feature
- On the main dashboard, tap on “Check Item” or look for the barcode icon
- This lets you scan any product barcode while you’re in the store
Step 4: Scan the Item Barcode
- Point your phone camera at the item’s barcode
- The app will immediately tell you whether the item is eligible or not eligible under the SARA programme
Step 5: Check Your Balance Anytime
- Your remaining SARA balance is shown on the homepage
- It updates every time you spend using your MyKad at a participating store
Step 6: Locate Nearby Participating Merchants
Make sure to shop only at these outlets for the aid to work
Tap on “Find Merchants” to find nearby supermarkets and grocers that accept MyKasih
Participating merchants include Mydin, Giant, Econsave, The Store, Pacific, Miimewa, 99 Speedmart, Lotuss Stores and some independent supermarkets and mini markets.
Step 7: Check Eligible Items for Purchase
Tap on “Catalogue” for the full list of eligible items
Other Announcements by the Prime Minister
Along with the RM100 cash handout, here are a few more things the government announced to help ease the rakyat’s burden:
- RON95 petrol will be reduced to RM1.99 per litre
- Details on targeted fuel subsidy will be shared by end of September
- Toll hikes at 10 major highways will be postponed
- An additional public holiday has been declared on 15 September 2025
dixonthum 