RM100 aid meaningful for vulnerable groups, says PBB man
MIRI (July 26): The RM100 Sara cash aid may seem modest, but it can make a meaningful difference for Malaysia's most vulnerable groups, said Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Piasau branch chairman Ariffin Mohamad.
While some critics have dismissed the federal government's RM100 one-off assistance as inadequate, Ariffin, who is also Deputy Miri Mayor, argued that 'every ringgit counts' for families struggling with the rising cost of living.
'I believe that with any one-off assistance like this, we simply cannot please everyone. RM100 may seem like nothing to some, but for others, especially those struggling to make ends meet, such as senior citizens, single mothers, daily wage earners, or those who've lost their jobs, it can go a long way in easing their burden,' he said.
Ariffin also praised the direct crediting of the aid via MyKad, calling it an efficient and inclusive approach.
'I view this as a short-term relief measure by the Federal Government to inject immediate assistance to the people.
'The decision to credit the aid directly through MyKad without requiring applications is a practical and efficient way to ensure wide and fast distribution, especially to those in rural areas or without digital access,' he added.
However, he stressed the need for clear public communication to ensure all eligible recipients understand how to use the aid and are aware of the usage deadline.
The RM100 initiative is part of the Madani Government's broader cost-of-living relief package, which also includes fuel price reductions and a freeze on toll rate hikes.
Still, some rural representatives in Sarawak have urged Putrajaya to tailor such rollouts to local contexts, noting that the needs and challenges in Sarawak differ from those in Peninsular Malaysia.
While acknowledging the value of short-term aid, Ariffin emphasised the importance of long-term planning tailored to Sarawak's unique development needs.
'As at the state level, I believe GPS has always stayed true to its struggle — to protect Sarawak's rights, to fight for greater autonomy, and to ensure that Sarawakians are not left behind in national policies,' he said.
He highlighted Gabungan Parti Sarawak's (GPS) focus on sustainable growth through initiatives such as the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030), rural infrastructure development, improved internet access via the Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy, and state-led enterprises like Petros and the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund.
'Over the years, GPS has focused on strengthening Sarawak's economy through these various initiatives to ensure Sarawak's wealth is managed for long-term benefit,' he said.
Looking ahead, he stressed the need to strike a balance between immediate support and sustainable policy reforms.
'That is why for me, beyond short-term aid like this, what truly matters is continuing to push for policies that are fair to and reflect the real needs of our people — not just for today, but for generations to come,' said Ariffin. Ariffin Mohamad lead SARA vulnerable groups
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