Hasif Idris, 35, said he was very happy with the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiative, describing it as a measure that truly alleviated financial pressure.
“When the government announced SARA, I was genuinely happy because I could immediately plan my grocery purchases: rice, soap, and other essentials. At the very least, it helps reduce monthly expenses,” Hasif, a private sector employee, told FMT.
Adding however that he did not want to rely solely on such assistance, he voiced hope that the upcoming budget would expand programmes that help Malaysians increase and generate their own income.
“I hope this year’s budget will include more incentives and programmes like technical and vocational education and training, as such initiatives provide workers with added value to improve their skills and boost their earning potential,” he said.
Civil servant Wan Azizah Wan Jaafar, 56, said she had found the assistance schemes very helpful in managing daily expenses, expressing hope that the budget for 2026 would focus more on rural communities.
“Assistance like the RM100 SARA aid really helps with household expenses. For villagers like rubber tappers and farmers, such subsidies make a real difference. I hope the next budget will further strengthen support for them,” she said.
Author Haikal Isa, 32, expressed hope that the Budi Madani RON95 (BUDI95) initiative would continue under the next budget, saying the reduced petrol price of RM1.99 per litre had been meaningful for Malaysians.
“BUDI95 offers significant benefits. Even with the 300-litre limit, the savings is considerable, especially for long trips back to our hometowns.
“The money saved on petrol can go towards other necessities. I really hope this programme continues, as its benefits to the people are clear,” he said.
Supermarket worker Muhammad Ridzwan, 25, has been breathing easier since the minimum wage was raised to RM1,700. However, he is still hoping for a reduction in the price of goods.
“In terms of wages, the minimum rate now is quite reasonable, but the price of food and raw ingredients could be brought down a little.
“These days, food at bazaars is getting expensive and some sellers are charging prices that just don’t make sense,” he said.
Inflation and cost of living still top concerns
Bank Muamalat chief economist Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said inflation and rising living costs would remain key priorities for the government in Budget 2026.
He said policy instruments such as SARA and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) would continue to play a vital role given their direct benefit to the people.
“This year alone, allocations for SARA and STR were increased to RM15 billion, up from RM10 billion previously, thanks to the government’s fiscal savings,” he said.
He added that beyond cash aid, stronger enforcement was needed to regulate market prices, including firm action against hoarding, price manipulation, and cartel activities.
“If left unchecked, the price of goods and services could spike sharply, ultimately compromising the people’s purchasing power,” he said.