The government has warned that it will not compromise with traders who exploit the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiative by inflating prices and undermining public benefits.
Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said social media posts have highlighted claims that certain businesses raised prices following the SARA rollout.
“If such incidents are proven, investigations and enforcement under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 will be carried out. The MADANI government takes such complaints seriously, while also appreciating supermarkets and grocers offering special discounts to SARA beneficiaries,” he said.
The public has been urged to report suspicious practices through the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) channels:
- e-Aduan KPDN portal
- WhatsApp: 019-8488000
- Hotline: 1-800-886-800
According to the Ministry of Finance, the initiative has run smoothly since its launch on August 31. As of 9.30pm yesterday, cumulative spending reached RM102.5 million involving 1.7 million recipients.
Overall, more than 11.8 million Malaysians have benefited from SARA credits and monthly subsidies, with nationwide purchases amounting to RM745.7 million. The ministry added that the system achieved a stable 99.9% transaction success rate over the past two days following technical upgrades.
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