Increased STR Allocation Proves Govt’s Commitment To Helping People

IPOH,  Jan 29  (Bernama) -- Recipients of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) of Rahmah Cash Contribution described the increased allocation as a testament to the government's continued commitment to alleviating the financial burden in daily expenses of the less affordable.

A retiree, Isa Abdullah, 72,  expressed his gratitude for the increased allocation, noting that it has been especially helpful in supporting the education of his youngest son, who is currently studying at a public institution of higher learning (IPTA) in Sungai Besar, Selangor.

The father of seven explained that while his other children also contribute to their youngest sibling's expenses, he prefers not to rely entirely on them.

"Although my other children assist financially, I don't want to be completely dependent on them, as they each have their commitments.

"Therefore, I allocate part of the STR assistance to cover my son's expenses at the IPTA, particularly for emergencies," he said when contacted by Bernama today.

Last Jan 21, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) announced in a statement that this year’s Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) allocation has increased to RM2.3 billion, compared to RM2.1 billion last year.

The statement also detailed that payments would be made either by direct bank transfer to the registered recipients' accounts or disbursed in cash through Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) in stages, based on the respective STR qualification categories.

Nurliza Samsul Rijal, 41, a boutique worker and recipient under the family category of STR, said the funds would be primarily used to purchase necessities for her family.

“No matter how much we get, it’s never truly enough, even RM5,000 wouldn’t be enough either. But STR isn’t meant to provide everything. It’s meant to ease the burden on families.

 "Alhamdulillah, we are grateful for this assistance and will use it wisely to meet our family’s needs. Thank you to the MADANI Government,” she said.

Housewife Nor Hanis Shamsi, 34, praised the STR program for its ability to help reduce household expenses, particularly daily costs.

"The assistance allowed me to support my family to some extent, and I am deeply grateful to get to enjoy the benefit like others," she shared.

Similarly, private sector worker Lukhman Naim Ahmad Juffri, 22, an STR recipient under the single category, stated that he saves the aid and only uses it for urgent needs.

He welcomed the increase in STR allocation, highlighting it as proof of the government’s dedication to supporting all target groups.

"As someone who has just started working, I only use the financial aid for work-related expenses or emergencies.

"Moreover, the increase in STR assistance for targeted groups shows that the government understands the financial challenges we face in managing our daily lives," he added.

-- BERNAMA