M40 Among Government’s Key Focus Areas Ahead of Budget 2027

The M40 group is expected to be among the key focuses of Budget 2027, with the government looking at measures to address socioeconomic pressures and the rising cost of living. Political Secretary to the Finance Minister Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim said both middle-income households and lower-income groups remain vulnerable to current economic challenges.

The Budget 2027 is scheduled to be tabled by Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the Dewan Rakyat on October 9. 

STR, SARA Expected to Remain While More M40 Support Is Considered

Muhammad Kamil said existing assistance programmes such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) will continue to be strengthened to ease household financial pressures.

The government is also considering improvements to existing initiatives and potentially introducing other forms of financial support specifically for middle-income households. 

He said the government is still conducting engagement sessions with stakeholders before finalising the Budget. The administration also wants to ensure political and economic stability remains strong so that policies can be implemented effectively.

The focus on M40 households could be significant as many continue to face higher living costs despite being outside the traditional lower-income assistance bracket.