Bandar Kuching MP Dr. Kelvin Yii has urged the Federal Government to expedite the registration process for Kedai MyKasih merchants to ensure that small traders and grocery store owners can also benefit from the initiative.
He revealed that several business owners who have submitted their registration requests to MyKasih, are recently voicing their frustration over the lengthy registration process for participation in the programme. The delays have prevented many local grocery shops and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from completing their registration on time, affecting both their business income and the convenience of consumers relying on these neighbourhood stores.
Under the MyKasih programme, recipients of the SARA aid are able to make purchases only at stores registered with the Kedai MyKasih system. This is a well-intentioned policy that benefits many, which is aimed at ensuring that financial aid directly benefits its intended recipients. However, Dr. Yii pointed out that most of the stores successfully registered under the system are large supermarket chains, while many local grocery stores and small traders are still awaiting approval or are hindered by a complicated registration process.
He further disclosed that some small traders have reported a drop in sales of up to 60% since the implementation of the MyKasih programme, which has also had a negative impact on the local economy.
“Many traders have submitted their registration applications to the MyKasih Foundation as early as June this year, but have yet to receive any approval or updates. As a result, they have not been provided with the necessary point-of-sale (POS) terminals and barcode scanners, leaving them unable to accept payments from SARA recipients,” he said.
Dr. Yii added that the MyKasih Foundation is reportedly also facing a shortage of POS equipment, which not only affects the merchants’ ability to operate effectively but also inconveniences the public who are unable to use their SARA funds at small neighbourhood stores.
He made these remarks during his speech in Parliament today.
Dr. Yii called on the Federal Government and the MyKasih Foundation to take the necessary measures to speed up the registration and approval process for merchants and to resolve the shortage of equipment as soon as possible.
He also proposed that the government establish a special “Fast Track” channel for SMEs and small traders to simplify the registration process, allowing more local businesses to participate in the programme. At the same time, he urged for the strengthening of system support mechanisms to ensure that the initiative truly benefits grassroots communities and stimulates local economic activity.
“This initiative will not only allow more merchants to benefit but will also expand the usability of SARA assistance. It enables recipients to make purchases conveniently at nearby shops while boosting local economic growth,” he said.
“We fully support the government’s efforts through the Kedai MyKasih programme to ensure that assistance reaches the right people. However, we also hope that the relevant departments can improve their service efficiency, shorten approval times, and provide greater support for local SMEs and small traders so that the programme can be more inclusive, efficient, and truly beneficial to all Malaysians.”