Armizan, whose portfolio includes cost of living, said currently Sara aid recipients could only purchase essential items at supermarkets and retail outlets, Bernama reported.

The ministry would collaborate with the finance ministry to expand access for aid recipients, particularly in rural and interior areas, to make purchases at mobile Jualan Rahmah locations, he said after launching a ministry carnival in Ranau, Sabah.

Armizan said an additional RM300 million had been allocated to the Jualan Rahmah programme, which would enable the ministry to hold 20,000 events throughout this year.

He said the approaches included increasing the range of items offered and enhancing cooperation with retail partners. “Through these improvements, the people will have more choices,” he said. The ministry could no longer act alone as it did in the past but would collaborate with retail partners.

The carnival in Ranau is being held in conjunction with the buy Malaysian goods campaign. About 60,000 visitors are expected for the three-day event, he said.