KUALA LUMPUR, More than 2.9 million Malaysians have collectively spent RM192.4 million on essential goods within the first three days of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) programme, according to the Ministry of Finance (MOF).
The initiative, which provides a one-off RM100 credit to eligible recipients, saw particularly strong usage on its third day. On Tuesday (Sept 2), over 1.1 million transactions worth RM75.3 million were recorded as of 10.30pm, a significant increase from RM50 million in sales on the first day (Aug 31).
The MOF noted that the higher uptake also translated into improved efficiency of the programme’s payment infrastructure. The transaction success rate climbed to 95%, compared with 79% on the launch day, highlighting adjustments made to strengthen system performance.
In its statement, the ministry explained that the surge in usage placed unprecedented demand on the MyKasih system, which processes Sara transactions. At its peak, the platform handled over 2,000 approved transactions per minute — nearly four times the record peak of 540 transactions per minute set in April 2025.
To cope with the heightened demand, the MOF said system processing capacity has been tripled from 5,000 to 15,000 queries per minute. “This upgrade is expected to speed up transaction processing and enhance user convenience,” the ministry said.
The Sara programme forms part of the government’s broader Rahmah initiative, aimed at easing the burden of rising living costs, particularly among lower-income households. By targeting spending on basic necessities, the credits are expected to channel direct support where it is most needed.
Recipients can utilise the RM100 credit until Dec 31, 2025, at more than 7,300 registered retail outlets nationwide, ensuring widespread accessibility.
The ministry said it would continue to monitor transaction patterns and system performance closely to ensure smooth implementation and to make further adjustments where necessary.
“With the strong response witnessed in the first few days, Sara is proving to be an impactful programme in supporting Malaysians’ daily needs,” the MOF said.
