MOF Moots QR SARA Usage At Tamu, Farmers' Markets

KUALA LUMPUR, July 27 (Bernama)  -- The government is studying the possibility of utilising Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) credit through quick response (QR) code payments at tamu markets and farmers’ markets, with a decision expected to be announced in Budget 2027 if deemed sustainable, according to the Ministry of Finance (MOF).

The ministry said the government has increased the number of small retailers as SARA business partners to more than 6,000 premises, and the total number of SARA business partners up to July 15, 2026, reached more than 13,700 shops nationwide.

“At the same time, 140,000 products or goods can be obtained through SARA.

“If a given SARA business partner is also involved as a vendor at tamu or farmers’ markets, SARA recipients can use their SARA credit to purchase SARA category goods,” the ministry said in a written reply posted on the Parliament’s website today.

The MOF was responding to Senator Larry Anak Asap regarding the expanding SARA spending at tamu markets to benefit hawkers and small traders.

The ministry also noted that the number of SARA business partners up to July 15, 2026, has increased to more than 13,700 shops nationwide, up from 700 in 2024.

-- BERNAMA