(Source: Facebook | Pejabat Pendaftaran Negara)
So, turns out many Malaysians holding a MyKad over 10 years old might face trouble if they try to use the government’s one-off RM100 Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) cash aid. Starting from 31 August until 31 December 2025, every Malaysian aged 18 and above will receive a one‑off RM100 credited directly to their MyKad. No forms, no apps, no registration.
Just flash your IC at the cashier and go shopping for essentials at participating stores like Giant, Mydin, HeroMarket, Econsave, Lotus’s, 99 Speedmart and neighbourhood outlets across Malaysia. That’s over 4,100 stores accepting it.
(Source: Facebook | Pejabat Pendaftaran Negara)
If your MyKad is more than a decade old, you might be in trouble
According to the National Registration Department (JPN), cards over 10 years old, or cards that are scratched and bent are at risk of chip failure. Signs include repeated failures at kiosks or banks, agencies not being able to scan your card, physical damage like scratches or cracks. If that happens, you won’t be able to redeem the SARA credit.
(Source: Facebook | Pejabat Pendaftaran Negara)
Where to replace your MyKad?
Don’t rush to the JPN just yet. First try using your MyKad at a POS terminal or kiosk to see if it still works.
If it fails, only then head over to JPN, either online or at your nearest UTC or JPN branch or mobile services like the MEKAR bus or van, to request a replacement. The fee is RM10 for MyKad and RM40 for MyKAS/MyPR, and turnaround is quick, often within 30 minutes at selected offices.
(Source: Facebook | Pejabat Pendaftaran Negara)
Take care of your MyKad
JPN is also reminding the public to take good care of their MyKad by storing it safely and keeping it away from bending, heat, water, magnets, and rough surfaces. A damaged or unreadable chip can cause problems not just when dealing with government services but now also in claiming financial assistance.
Don’t fall for scams asking you to “apply” for SARA
The Ministry of Finance has repeatedly warned that there’s no need to apply or sign up for the RM100 SARA cash credit. It will be automatically credited onto your MyKad after 31 August, and any unused balance can roll over month by month until December 31. It must be spent on essential items only, from categories like rice, cooking oil, diapers, medication, stationery, detergent, soap, and other daily necessities.
Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying also issued a strong reminder: fake links or messages urging people to register or sign up are scams. Malaysians are urged not to click any suspicious links because the government does not require registration for the aid.
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