Prime Minister Anwar’s New Year’s Day address roundup
As 2026 kicks off, Malaysians are stepping into the new year with hopes for positive change and meaningful progress. That said, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivered a New Year’s address that sets the tone for what lies ahead, outlining key priorities in improving public services.
Among the highlights is the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah, or SARA aid, which local folks can look forward to receiving soon.
Here’s a breakdown of the announcements:
SARA aid cash assistance
Image credit: Anwar Ibrahim via Facebook
Let’s be honest, starting the year always comes with expenses, and extra spending does not help. That is why the SARA cash assistance stood out as one of the most welcomed announcements in the Prime Minister’s address.
Under this year’s initiative, all Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above will receive RM100. The government has confirmed that the amount will be credited directly into recipients’ accounts beginning on 9th February 2026.
While RM100 may not seem like much, the timing makes a real difference. With Chinese New Year celebrations and Ramadan approaching, household spending tends to increase. This assistance offers some breathing room during the festive season to manage everyday needs.
Beyond the one-off RM100 payment, the SARA programme will continue alongside the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah or STR. Monthly SARA assistance has already begun earlier in the year, while Phase 1 of STR payments will be credited from 20th January.
Eligible recipients may receive up to RM500, offering continued support during the early months of 2026. Those who are eligible for the payment can check their status here.
Other key announcements from PMX
Image credit: Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia via Facebook
Beyond financial aid, the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, also shared several important plans aimed at long-term reform and development.
One of the major focuses is institutional reform. Proposals include setting a 10-year limit on the tenure of the Prime Minister and other key positions, as well as separating the powers of the public prosecutor from the Attorney General.
Judicial reform was also addressed, with judges set to receive a long-awaited salary revision after 10 years without an increase.
In terms of transparency, the government plans to introduce a Freedom of Information Bill that will give Malaysians the right to access official digital information held by ministries, departments, and public agencies, while still protecting personal data and national security.
Education and infrastructure were not left out. A total of RM130 million has been allocated for vernacular schools, with RM80 million set aside for SJKC upgrades and RM50 million for SJKT improvements.
On top of that, parents can collect RM150 in schooling aid for each school-going child at their respective schools.
Other measures include the Jualan Rahmah Madani initiative, which begins on 9th January. For those unfamiliar, it is a programme under the Malaysia Madani policy that offers everyday essentials such as rice and cooking oil at lower prices to help families manage the cost of living.
The sales are held regularly in parliamentary constituencies across the country, making daily essentials more affordable for everyone.
Small business owners also received good news, with the Service Tax on rentals for micro, small, and medium enterprises reduced from eight percent to six percent.
Looking ahead to 2026 for Malaysians
With the SARA aid arriving next month, millions of Malaysians can expect early financial support to help manage festive spending and daily expenses.
At the same time, the government’s broader reform agenda signals a commitment to improving governance, education and economic wellbeing. Let’s hope for a better year ahead.
Cover image adapted from: Anwar Ibrahim via Facebook, CompareHero via Website