The government will begin distributing payments for the Phase Three of Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) tomorrow on 12 August. As revealed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today, a total of RM2 billion have been allocated to help ease the cost of living for low-income households under the initiative.
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, added that 8.6 million recipients will receive up to RM650 each through STR Phase Three. This marks an increase of 300,000 recipients compared to the 8.3 million beneficiaries in Phase One last January.
“The year-round application and appeal process demonstrates the Madani government’s commitment to its responsibility in improving the welfare of the majority, leaving no one behind in benefiting from the nation’s wealth,” Anwar said. “More than just cash assistance, STR empowers recipients to achieve financial independence, helping us realise the equality envisioned in the Madani Economy.”
Payments will be made to existing and newly registered recipients in the STR database, either through direct bank credits or cash disbursements via Bank Simpanan Nasional. Disbursement will be carried out in stages based on eligibility categories. The Finance Ministry added that individuals not listed in the STR database will need to submit an application to verify their eligibility.
The third phase of STR should not be confused with the RM100 SARA aid announced by Anwar last month. That one-off cash aid is available to Malaysians aged 18 and above and can be used between 31 August and 31 December 2025 via MyKad. In case you missed it, here’s our guide on how to redeem it.
(Source: The Star / Ministry of Finance [Facebook])