PETALING JAYA: Every Malaysian aged 18 and above will receive a one-off RM100 cash assistance credited directly to their MyKad under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) initiative, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister said this was in conjunction with National Day on Aug 31, aimed at easing the rising cost of living and as a token of appreciation for the people.

"With this announcement, the combined allocation for Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sara rises from RM13bil to RM15bil this year, marking the first time in history that cash aid is extended to all adult Malaysians," he said in a special announcement aired live on his social media platforms on Wednesday (July 23).

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said that this initiative will benefit 22 million Malaysians with an allocation of RM2bil.

This assistance, said Anwar, can be used from Aug 31 to Dec 31 to buy essentials at over 4,100 outlets nationwide, including major supermarkets such as Mydin, Lotus's, Econsave, 99Speedmart and participating grocers.

"It will be distributed on an individual basis, not by household.

"So, for example, a household with a husband, wife and two adult children will receive a total of RM400," he said.

Anwar said the cost of living remains a pressing challenge that must be addressed wisely and urgently.

He added that while overall inflation in June dropped to 1.1%, the lowest in 52 months, food and beverage prices continue to rise above the national average.

"There may be some among us who are financially secure and do not need this aid.

"The government intends to reallocate any unspent funds by year-end towards assistance programmes for vulnerable groups next year," he said.