Cover image via SAYS
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Some Malaysians have reported receiving a suspicious SMS claiming that a "one-time RM300 SARA payment" will be deposited into their "Touch 'n Go bank accounts"
The message asks recipients to "confirm eligibility" by logging into a website that contains a suspicious link.
The message's style and URL mimic official government communications to appear credible. However, a check by SAYS reveals that clicking the link and entering personal details can lead to identity theft and financial loss.
The URL is not an official government site, and there is no government programme requiring Malaysians to log in through third-party links to receive aid.
SAYS understands the message is a fraudulent attempt to steal personal banking information. No SARA payment requires Malaysians to log in via third-party websites.
The message reads:
"RM0 SARA: Starting from January 1, 2026, a one-time assistance of RM300 will be deposited into your Touch'n Go bank account. Please confirm eligibility and log in to the official website to submit the application: [suspicious link removed by SAYS] – Ministry of Finance (MOF)"
Malaysians are advised to:
- Ignore unsolicited SMS or emails claiming government payments.
- Verify official announcements on government portals like www.mof.gov.my.
- Never provide personal banking information to unknown websites or third-party links.
This incident serves as a reminder of the increasing number of scams targeting Malaysians, often timed to coincide with government aid programmes.
To help you distinguish the fake message from the real programme, here are the actual details of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) 2026 announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday, 5 January
One-off Assistance: Every Malaysian adult (18 years and above) is eligible for a one-off RM100 credit (not RM300), which will be distributed on February 9, 2026, for festive preparations.
Mode of Payment: The aid is not deposited into a "Touch 'n Go bank account." It is credited cashlessly via your MyKad (IC) to be used at over 4,000 participating retail outlets (like Mydin, 99 Speedmart, and Lotus's) using the MyKasih system.
No Application Required: If you are an existing aid recipient or a citizen with updated records, you do not need to "log in" to any website to apply; the credit is distributed automatically.
Monthly Aid: For the hardcore poor and lower-income groups, monthly SARA assistance (RM50–RM200) will begin as early as January 9, 2026.
To check your actual status safely, only use these official government portals:
MySTR/SARA Portal: bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my
MyKasih Portal: www.mykasih.com.my
