January 22, 2026
World
World
TOKYO, Jan 22 — Japan has halted the restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant just hours after it began, though the reactor remains “stable,” the operator said.
KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 — The one-off RM100 cash assistance under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme, to be distributed via MyKad to all Malaysian adults, is a targeted initiative that promotes transparency and ensures the aid reaches the intended recipients directly, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
She explained that this method allows Malaysians aged 18 and above to use the aid specifically for purchasing essential goods, while preventing misuse on non-essential or harmful items.
“I believe the SARA initiative has clear benefits, as it’s restricted to buying basic necessities and cannot be used for items like cigarettes or alcohol.
“With the funds channelled through MyKad, this programme can effectively reach and benefit all eligible Malaysians,” she told Bernama Radio in a phone interview today.
Her remarks came following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s special announcement in conjunction with National Day 2025, which includes an RM2 billion allocation expected to benefit over 22 million people.
Teo also welcomed the increased allocation for the Rahmah Madani Sales programme, which has doubled from RM300 million to RM600 million this year. She said the move will help more Malaysians, especially those in the B40 income group, access essential items at lower prices.
“Prices at Rahmah Madani Sales are very affordable. For example, during my recent visit to one in my area, instant noodles were sold at RM3.70 compared to RM4 or even RM5 at regular supermarkets.
“Eggs and many other essentials were also available at significantly reduced prices. This expansion will certainly bring relief to more households, particularly those in the B40 segment,” she added.
In addition, Teo praised the government’s plan to implement a targeted fuel subsidy, which will set the price of RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre for Malaysians.
“This RM1.99 RON95 petrol rate is great news. It ensures that only Malaysians enjoy the subsidised price, while foreigners are excluded. This fair and targeted mechanism ensures government subsidies reach those who truly deserve them,” she said.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Anwar announced several key initiatives as part of the Madani Government’s appreciation for the people. These include the RM100 SARA aid via MyKad, the postponement of toll hikes for 10 highways, and the introduction of the lower RM1.99 per litre RON95 petrol price. — Bernama
