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Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced on January 16 that 3.1 million single individuals will receive direct financial aid through the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiative, credited to their MyKad. This program aims to alleviate living costs and support local economies by increasing small business participation, ensuring inclusivity and sustainability.
The Ministry of Finance has stated that it can withdraw financial aid, including the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR), if applicants submit false information. The ministry conducts thorough eligibility checks, including income and asset reviews. This year, RM15 billion is allocated for STR and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah support to over eight million eligible people.
Malaysia’s Inland Revenue Board has launched E-Invois Phase 4 and Self-Assessment Stamp Duty System (STSDS) Phase 1 effective January 1, 2026, targeting businesses with annual income up to RM5 million. This initiative replaces the outdated STAMPS system, enhancing efficiency and compliance while exempting micro-enterprises with turnover below RM1 million from costs.
By TENGKU NOOR SHAMSIAH TENGKU ABDULLAH KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 31, 2025 – As 2025 draws to a close, the global economy is slowing—but not breaking. Growth forecasts for 2026 remain broadly positive across major economies, and the risk of an outright downturn appears contained. Yet beneath the headline numbers lies a more consequential shift. The…
Professor Geoffrey Williams A leading economist highlights the widening gap between macroeconomic performance and household realities as income challenges persist BY TENGKU NOOR SHAMSIAH TENGKU ABDULLAH KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 26 – Malaysia heads into 2026 facing a familiar but increasingly pronounced paradox. Key macroeconomic indicators point to resilience, solid GDP growth, low inflation and a…
