In support of the B40 community, the Malaysian Government has kickstarted the distribution of phase 2 of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) programme. They're increasing the funds by 20%, adding to last year's RM1.26 billion allocation to reach RM1.5 billion. This will benefit 8.4 million Malaysians, who will receive payments ranging from RM100 to RM650, based on their individual needs.

What is Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) programme?

Formerly known as Bantuan Keluarga Malaysia, the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) programme, or Rahmah Cash Contribution in English, provides cash assistance to Malaysians from the poor, B40 and M40 individuals, households, and senior citizens. The programme aims to alleviate financial burdens and enhance the well-being of eligible recipients.

Payments are distributed in four phases throughout the year:

• Phase 1: January 2024

• Phase 2: April 2024

• Phase 3: August 2024

• Phase 4: November 2024

These phases ensure that assistance is provided periodically to those in need, contributing to the overall welfare of Malaysian society.

Here’s what you need to know about eligibility and claiming:

Household income range: RM0 – RM2,500

0 child: RM150

1 - 2 child(ren): RM300

3 - 4 children: RM500

5 children and more: RM650

Household income range RM2,501 – RM5,000

0 child: RM100

1 - 2 child(ren): RM200

3 - 4 children: RM250

5 children and more: RM300

Senior citizens living alone (aged 60 and above)

Income range: RM0 – RM5,000: RM150

Single individuals and single OKU (aged 21 to 59)

Income range: RM0 – RM2,500: RM100

What if your application was rejected before?

You can reapply or appeal:

• Visit the official STR website at https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my

• Provide supporting documents to prove any changes in your circumstances. These documents may include a copy of your own or your partner's MyKad, a copy of your children's MyKid or MyKad, a copy of your child's birth certificate, and any other documents specified by the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN).

How to claim for STR 2024

Payments will be paid to the applicant’s registered bank account. If you don’t have a bank account, you may claim your cash aid from any Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) from 3 April 2024. Please bring along your national identity card for verification. Only registered representatives will be allowed to claim the cash aid on behalf of the applicant.

This may pose an issue for those who do not have a bank account or live near a BSN branch. Similarly to eMadani, perhaps the STR can also be credited to individual TNG eWallet account to ease the process for both the Government and recipients. This eliminates the need for recipients to accept the cash aid physically at a branch. All they need is to download the TNG eWallet app to their smartphones and complete the following steps:

• Enter their details and complete the account verification process

• Tap on the Profile icon located at the top right corner of their eWallet’s home screen

• Their account number will be displayed under their name.

• Provide this account number when claiming their STR 2024 funds. The bank name should be listed as Touch n Go eWallet.

We hope the Government will consider this as a payment option to ensure a more seamless and successful distribution of STR nationwide.

This commitment to social welfare echoes through the decision to open registrations for Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah throughout the year, ensuring that more individuals can benefit from this Government assistance.

As the Government adopts a proactive stance in expanding social welfare initiatives, this programme stands as a beacon of hope for millions, embodying the nation's commitment to uplifting the socio-economic landscape for all Malaysians. Through concerted efforts and inclusive policies, Malaysia continues to pave the way towards a more prosperous and equitable future for its citizens.

Should you require more information on this initiative, or to simply check your eligibility, visit the official portal at https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my