KUCHING, April 2: Payments for the second phase of the Rahmah cash aid (STR) initiative, ranging from RM100 to RM650, will commence tomorrow (April 3) for 8.4 million recipients.
According to a news report by TVS, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) announced that the payments will be disbursed to both existing recipients and new registrants in the STR database through direct bank crediting or cash distribution via Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) in stages, based on the eligibility categories of their respective STR.
MOF stated that starting from 2024, the Federal government is adopting a new approach with allowing open registration for the 2024 STR throughout the year so as to provide opportunities for more individuals to benefit from government assistance.
“Hence, the number of eligible recipients is expected to continue to increase this year, taking into account the new application process and updates conducted throughout the year compared to once a year previously,” MOF said in a statement on Monday (April 1).
MOF emphasised that if an applicant’s name is not in the STR database, they must submit an application to undergo the verification process for STR eligibility.
Furthermore, the Federal government has increased the allocation for the targeted subsidy programme of STR Phase 2 by 20 per cent, totalling RM1.5 billion compared to RM1.26 billion last year.
This increase aims to assist low and moderate-income people in coping with the escalating cost of living.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlighted that the economic reforms led by the Madani government are not solely focused on rectifying the country’s financial structure but also driven by genuine intentions to ensure more equitable distribution of the nation’s wealth among its people.
“Insha-Allah, the government will further increase cash assistance to the people in line with the improvement of the country’s fiscal situation, including the implementation of targeted subsidies for those who truly need them,” said Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister.
Verification of the aid eligibility status and frequently asked questions can be found on the official STR portal via the link https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my.
The MOF also cautioned aid recipients to remain vigilant against unofficial links from irresponsible parties seeking information related to the STR programme. — DayakDaily
