Home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the aid will be returned to the affected recipients once the investigations confirm that it was misused.

He said the finance ministry and the national registration department (JPN) will conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify the cause and ensure the rightful recipients have their aid reinstated once a police report is lodged by the MyKad holder.

“I assure you that SARA is the people’s right and the government will not allow any eligible recipient to be disadvantaged by technical issues or identity misuse,” he said in a statement today.

Saifuddin stated that JPN and the finance ministry are working to resolve technical issues related to MyKad verification and security, ensuring that the next round of targeted subsidy distribution can be carried out smoothly.

He said the ongoing improvement measures include regularly updating and matching MyKad data, card verification to prevent fraudulent redemptions, and strengthening JPN’s digital infrastructure security.

“The government remains committed to implementing targeted subsidies in a transparent, secure, and equitable manner.

“The home and finance ministries will continue to strengthen identity verification systems and data security to ensure every ringgit in assistance is rightfully returned to eligible recipients, without disruption, misappropriation, or loss of entitlement,” he added.