Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use SARA Aid in Malaysia 2025 – Easy Tips for Malaysians

Are you a Malaysian struggling with rising living costs? If you're looking for ways to stretch your budget on essentials like rice, oil, and hygiene products, the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) aid program could be a game-changer. Managed by the MyKasih Foundation, SARA provides cashless assistance loaded directly onto your MyKad, making it simple to buy necessities at participating stores. In 2025, the program has been expanded with higher monthly amounts (up to RM200 for households) and a special one-off RM100 aid for all eligible adults.This ultimate SARA Malaysia guide breaks down everything you need to know in easy, step-by-step instructions. Whether you're a first-time recipient or checking for the new one-off payment starting August 31, 2025, we've got you covered. Keywords like "how to use SARA MyKasih," "SARA eligibility check 2025," and "SARA approved items" are your ticket to relief – let's dive in!

What is Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA)?

SARA, or Sumbangan Asas Rahmah, is a government welfare initiative under the Malaysian Federal Government to help low-income families afford basic necessities. Unlike cash handouts, SARA is a cashless aid program where funds are credited to your MyKad for contactless purchases at over 1,200 registered retailers nationwide – now including Sabah and Sarawak in 2025.For 2025:

• Monthly Aid: Eligible recipients get RM100 per month from January to March, increasing to RM200 per month from April to December (totaling RM2,100 annually for poor households).
• One-Off Aid: A special RM100 one-time payment for all Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above, usable from August 31 to December 31, 2025.
• Target Group: Primarily STR (Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah) recipients classified as "Miskin" (poor) or "Miskin Tegar" (hardcore poor) in the e-Kasih database.

No separate application is needed – it's automatic based on e-Kasih records as of October 31, 2024. This program helps over 700,000 people, focusing on 14 essential categories to ensure aid goes toward real needs.

Who is Eligible for SARA 2025?

Eligibility for the main SARA monthly aid is tied to your STR status and e-Kasih classification:

• Malaysian citizens receiving STR 2025 in Household, Single, or Senior Citizens Without Partner categories.
• Listed as Miskin or Miskin Tegar in e-Kasih records up to October 31, 2024.
• For the one-off RM100: All Malaysians aged 18+ with a valid MyKad, including existing SARA recipients.

If you're not in e-Kasih, you may still qualify via STR approval. Periodic checks ensure ongoing eligibility, and appeals for STR can lead to SARA inclusion. Sabah and Sarawak residents are now fully covered, a big upgrade from 2024.

The RM100 One-Off SARA Aid – What You Need to Know

Announced in Budget 2025, this RM100 SARA one-off aid is a bonus for all adult Malaysians to ease inflation pressures. It's credited automatically to your MyKad and works just like the monthly aid – cashless purchases only. Key details:

• Disbursement: Starts August 31, 2025; expires December 31, 2025.
• Usage Period: Balances roll over monthly but must be used by year-end.
• Stores: Over 7,300 participating outlets (expected to grow), covering 90,000+ products.
• No Application: Automatic for eligible citizens; check via the official portal.

This aid complements the monthly SARA, so if you're already a recipient, you'll have extra funds for essentials.

Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Your SARA Eligibility

Wondering if you're eligible for SARA aid 2025? It's quick and free. Follow these steps:

1. Receive Notification: Look for an official letter from the government confirming your STR and SARA status, sent to your registered address. You'll also get SMS or WhatsApp alerts from MyKasih about your eligibility and orientation session dates.
2. Visit the Official Portal:
• Go to the STR portal: https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my.
• Or use MyKasih's recipient portal: https://app.mykasih.net/sara2/checkstatus.
• Enter your MyKad number and verification code (sent via SMS if needed).
3. Download the MyKasih App: Available on Google Play or App Store. Log in with your MyKad details to view personalized status, payment schedules, and nearby stores.
4. Call Helpline for Confirmation:
• MyKasih: 03-7720 1800 (9 AM - 5 PM).
• BKK HASiL: 1-800-88-2747.
• MOF: 03-8882 4565/4566.

For the one-off RM100, use the same portals – results will show if it's loaded. If ineligible, appeal via e-Kasih or STR channels.

How to Activate and Use Your SARA Aid on MyKad

Once eligible, activation is automatic, but here's how to start using it seamlessly. SARA funds are loaded monthly (or one-off) directly onto your MyKad – no ATM needed!

Step-by-Step Activation Process

1. Attend Orientation (If Notified): MyKasih may schedule a free session at a nearby store via SMS/WhatsApp. Bring your MyKad; your account activates on-site with a demo.
2. Set Your PIN: If it's your first time, change the default PIN (first 6 digits of your MyKad) to a 6-digit personal one. Do this at any participating store or via the app.
3. Verify MyKad: Ensure your MyKad is valid and not damaged. If lost, report to JPN (National Registration Department) and contact MyKasih for temporary access (one-time only).

Step-by-Step Shopping Process

1. Locate a Participating Store: Use the MyKasih app or website to find nearby outlets like Mydin, Giant, 99 Speedmart, Tesco (Lotus), or Econsave. There are over 1,200 for monthly SARA and 7,300+ for the one-off.
2. Select Approved Items: Choose from the 14 categories (see below). Look for the "MyKasih/SARA" label on shelves or price tags to ensure eligibility.
3. At the Checkout:
   • Show your MyKad to the cashier for verification.
   • Cashier scans the items (only approved ones qualify).
   • Insert/swipe your MyKad and enter your 6-digit PIN to deduct from your SARA balance.
   • Get your receipt – it shows the transaction and remaining balance.
4. Complete the Purchase: Unused balance carries over to the next month but expires December 31, 2025, for the one-off.

Pro Tip: Only the recipient can use their own MyKad; no sharing allowed to prevent fraud.

Approved Items and Participating Stores for SARA 2025

SARA ensures aid targets essentials. Here's a breakdown:

14 Approved Product Categories

Use this table for quick reference on SARA approved items Malaysia:

Category	Examples
Grains & Staples	Rice, Flour, Bread
Proteins	Eggs, Canned Food (e.g., Sardines, Tuna)
Oils & Fats	Cooking Oil
Snacks & Convenience	Biscuits, Instant Noodles
Beverages	Milk, Tea, Coffee
Seasonings	Sugar, Salt, Sauce, Soy Sauce
Personal Hygiene	Toothpaste, Soap, Sanitary Pads
Household Cleaning	Detergent, Dishwasher, Floor Cleaner
Medications	Approved by KKM (Ministry of Health)
School Supplies	Uniforms, Shoes, School Bags, Stationery

Only labeled items qualify – ask staff if unsure.

Participating Stores

• Major Chains: Mydin, Giant, Econsave, 99 Speedmart, Tesco's, Jaya Grocer.
• Total Outlets: 1,200+ for monthly; 7,300+ for one-off, nationwide including Sabah/Sarawak.
• Find them via the MyKasih app's store locator.

How to Check Your SARA Balance

Keeping track is easy to avoid surprises:

1. Via Portal/App: Log into https://app.mykasih.net/sara2/checkstatus or the MyKasih app. Enter MyKad details for instant balance, transaction history, and expiry dates.
2. At the Store: Receipts show post-purchase balance. Some stores have self-check kiosks.
3. SMS/WhatsApp: Register for alerts from MyKasih for low-balance notifications.
4. Helpline: Call 03-7720 1800 for verbal confirmation.

Balances roll over but don't carry to 2026 – use them up!

Tips for Maximizing Your SARA Benefits in 2025

• Plan Purchases: Shop monthly to avoid expiry; stock up on non-perishables like rice or cleaning supplies.
• Combine with STR: If you get both, use SARA for groceries and STR cash for other needs.
• Watch for Updates: Follow MyKasih on social media or the app for store expansions and category additions.
• Avoid Scams: Only use official portals; never pay fees for activation.
• Family Sharing: Each eligible member gets their own aid – check for spouses/kids.
• For One-Off: Use the extra RM100 wisely before December 31; it's perfect for back-to-school items.

Common FAQs on Using SARA Aid Malaysia

Q: What if my MyKad is faulty?
A: Contact MyKasih immediately for a one-time manual transaction; replace via JPN ASAP.

Q: Can I use SARA for online shopping?
A: Currently no – it's in-store only at physical participating retailers.

Q: Is the one-off RM100 separate from monthly SARA?
A: Yes, but both load on the same MyKad balance.

Q: How do I appeal if ineligible?
A: Submit via e-Kasih portal or STR helpline; decisions take 2-4 weeks.

For more, download the official FAQ PDF from MyKasih.

Claim Your SARA Aid Today and Ease Your Budget

The SARA aid program 2025 is a lifeline for Malaysians, especially with the new one-off RM100 kicking in tomorrow (August 31, 2025). By following this step-by-step guide, you can check eligibility, activate your MyKad, and shop smartly for essentials without hassle. Remember, it's all about transparency and ease – no cash, just scan and go!Head to www.mykasih.com.my or download the app now to get started. If you have questions, drop a comment below or call the helpline. Share this guide with family and friends – together, we can make the most of government aid. Stay informed, stay relieved!

Last updated: August 28, 2025. Always verify with official sources for the latest changes.