Join on WhatsApp
Get the latest updates directly on WhatsApp – motivation, news & more!
Join On WhatsApp
As the cost of living continues to rise in Malaysia, the government has stepped in once again to provide relief to the people. In a much-welcomed announcement, the Ministry of Finance has confirmed that eligible Malaysians can now claim a one-off RM500 cash aid, beginning this week.
This new cash assistance is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to help low- and middle-income groups manage daily expenses, especially with rising food prices, transport costs, and utility bills. If you’re wondering whether you qualify or how to claim the money, this article covers everything you need to know.
What Is the RM500 Cash Aid About?
The RM500 cash aid is a direct financial assistance initiative introduced under the government’s latest Bantuan Sara Hidup (BSH) or equivalent aid programme for 2025. It targets eligible B40 and selected M40 households, who have been most affected by the rising cost of essentials.
The cash payment is not a loan, nor is it taxable. It is meant as immediate support to help cover daily living costs, and will be disbursed directly to recipients via bank transfer.
This is not the first time such assistance has been provided. Over the past few years, the government has rolled out similar schemes under Bantuan Prihatin Rakyat (BPR), Bantuan Keluarga Malaysia (BKM), and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR). However, this latest RM500 payout comes as part of the mid-year financial relief strategy for 2025.
Who Is Eligible to Receive the RM500?
To receive the RM500 cash assistance, recipients must meet specific eligibility criteria. According to the latest information from the Ministry of Finance, eligible groups include:
- Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above
- Households with a monthly income below RM5,000
- Single individuals earning below RM2,500 monthly
- Recipients of existing STR/BKM/BSH aid schemes
- Pensioners and senior citizens under selected categories
Additional considerations may be given to households with dependents, persons with disabilities (OKU), and single parents.
If you have received previous rounds of cash aid or are registered in the national income database (e.g., e-Kasih or STR), you are likely already in the system and do not need to reapply.
When and How to Claim the RM500 Cash Aid
The government has confirmed that cash disbursement starts this week, with the first batch of payments scheduled to be deposited into recipients’ bank accounts within the next few days.
Here’s how to check and claim your payment:
- Visit the official aid portal – Depending on the programme (e.g., STR or BSH), go to the relevant government website (such as https://bantuantunai.hasil.gov.my)
- Log in using your MyKad number and security verification
- Check payment status – If you are eligible, you’ll see a confirmation and the payment date
- Payments will be credited directly into your bank account if your details are already in the system
For those without bank accounts or facing issues, payments can also be claimed at Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) branches nationwide with valid identification.
What If You’re Not in the System Yet?
If you haven’t registered for any aid scheme before, you can still apply. The application process is simple:
- Head to the official STR or BSH portal
- Create a new account and complete your income and household details
- Upload the necessary documents, such as salary slips, identification cards, and utility bills
- Submit your application before the cut-off date announced by the government
If your application is approved, you will be included in future disbursements and possibly eligible for other forms of assistance as well.
Avoiding Scams and Misinformation
With any government financial assistance programme, there is always a risk of fraud. Malaysians are advised to only trust official announcements from the Ministry of Finance, LHDN, or verified government channels.
Do not click on suspicious links or provide personal banking information via WhatsApp, SMS, or social media ads. The government will never ask you to pay to claim your aid. If you suspect a scam, report it to the authorities immediately.
What Can the RM500 Be Used For?
This RM500 cash injection is meant to help ease the financial pressure that many households are facing right now. While it’s a one-time payment, it can still make a difference when used wisely. Here are a few ways to stretch the value:
- Covering part of monthly utility bills such as electricity, water, and internet
- Purchasing essential groceries or baby supplies
- Paying school-related expenses for children
- Servicing small outstanding debts or microloan repayments
- Topping up transport cards or fuel for work commuting
By using the money strategically, families can reduce their financial stress and stay on top of basic needs.
Additional Support Available
In addition to the RM500 aid, Malaysians are encouraged to explore other ongoing support schemes, such as:
- eBelia Credit for young Malaysians
- Subsidised electricity rates for low-income households
- Rahmah food baskets and meal programmes in selected areas
- Health screening vouchers for B40 adults
- Education aid and PTPTN discounts for students
Many of these are available through government websites or by visiting your nearest Urban Transformation Centre (UTC) or Pejabat Daerah.
Final Thoughts
The confirmation of the RM500 cash aid could not have come at a better time for many Malaysians struggling with rising costs. With the first batch of payments rolling out this week, eligible recipients can expect to receive some welcome relief in their accounts soon.
If you or someone in your family qualifies, make sure to check your payment status, keep your bank information updated, and use the funds wisely. This support, while temporary, can be a helpful step towards easing financial pressure in the months ahead.