Mixed reactions to RM100 one-off aid

The Star

a day ago

Kandapan says the aid does not address deeper concerns.
The Government's one-off RM100 cash aid under the 'Sum­bangan Asas Rahmah' (Sara) initiative has sparked mixed reactions among Johoreans.
Some welcomed it but also questioned its sustainability and impact amid rising living costs.
They claimed the cost of living in Johor was among the highest in the country – something which needed to be addressed urgently.
Retiree M. Kandapan, 65, said the RM100 disbursement might temporarily please some but it did not address the deeper concerns.
'Everyone will receive the money through their MyKad, regardless if they are B40, M40 or T20 folks.
Lee says the aid creates a sense of inclusivity and unity.
'This initiative should be more targeted,' he opined.
'If someone earns RM5,000 and above, then he or she does not need this kind of aid.'
The father-of-five highlighted the aid's limited purchasing power.
'Milk formula for children now costs RM120.
'If the government truly wants to help, then it should focus on retirees and low-income families instead of everyone,' he said.
Kandapan also raised concerns about the MyKad mechanism, especially for petrol purchases.
'I am not comfortable with handing over my MyKad to a foreign worker at petrol station to redeem RM100 worth of fuel.
'I would rather use my own money than risk wasting time or exposing my personal data.'
Siti Nur Hamidah says the aid should be targeted.
Administrative staff Siti Nur Hamidah Abdul Hamid, 25, said the initiative was far from sufficient, given today's economic challen­ges.
'The amount is not enough for certain groups but it can be useful for many. At the very least, it would help reduce spending on daily necessities,' she said.
'However, I believe the aid would be more impactful if it was targeted to a specific group at a time, such as the B40 or M40, so the amount could be more meaningful for the recipients.'
She added that although the gesture was appreciated, the RM100 felt largely symbolic.
'It is helpful to a degree, but in reality, it does not cover even a month's worth of basic groceries.
'I believe occasional aid is fine, but the Government should focus on long-term support that truly addresses people's needs.'
Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Pasir Gudang Faculty of Civil Engineering senior lecturer Dr Lee Siong Wee, 48, welcomed the initiative as a reflection of the government's inclusiveness.
'The RM100 Sara aid reflects the Government's concern for all citizens, regardless of income group.
'It is especially beneficial for youth, particularly university students who have yet to earn a steady income.
'Although the amount is small, it should not be dismissed.
'When combined within a household, it can ease the financial burden of daily expenses,' Lee said.
She said all Malaysians deserved such gesture from the Government.
'Even though B40 and M40 groups already receive other forms of targeted aid, it is good for the RM100 to be disbursed to everyone.
'It creates a sense of inclusivity and unity,' she added.
On July 23, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that every Malaysian aged 18 and above would receive a one-off RM100 cash assistance credited directly to their MyKad under the Sara initiative.
He said the move was in conjunction with National Day.
It was aimed at easing the cost of living and to serve as a token of appreciation for the public.