MCO - Islamic NGO reaches out to non-Muslim poor

As the movement control order enters Day 34, charitable efforts continue with the Islamic Propagation Society International reaching out to the non-Muslim urban poor in Penang to help ease their financial burden.

IPSI president Kamaruddin Abdullah said the MCO, which has been extended to April 28, had left many people stranded economically.

"Since they are not able to go out to earn a living, many are struggling to feed their families and lead a normal life," Kamaruddin told Malaysiakini.

The humanitarian NGO had organised a “Bantuan Prihatin Covid 19” programme to supply food items to poor Penang residents irrespective of race, religion or political belief.

This follows Putrajaya's call to all quarters to help fellow Malaysians cope with the economic downturn brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

While Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin had unveiled the Bantuan Prihatin Nasional stimulus package for low and middle-income households, the urban poor continue to need assistance and for some rural folks, getting their hands on the cash aid is proving to b a challenge.

According to Kamaruddin, IPSI spent a total of RM24, 565 which was distributed to 610 families in Penang who had no income or had their incomes reduced since the implementation of the MCO.

"We went all out to reduce the burdens of the poor and needy in society without considering their background," Kamaruddin said.

The recipients were mostly the residents of low-cost flats, consisting of those who had many family members to support.

IPSI distributed their food aid to residents at Flat Taman Manggis, Flat Padang Tembak, Flat Sungai Pinang and Taman Nusantara, among other low-cost housing areas.

The food aid comprised of rice, eggs, flour, sugar, cooking oil and other basic necessities.

One of the recipients, known only as "Uncle Lee" said he was truly grateful and happy with the help from IPSI.

He lamented that he needed to work extra hard to earn money during the MCO since his income had been badly affected.

"It is hoped that IPSI’s humble efforts through this 'Bantuan Prihatin Covid 19' will make a difference in the lives of the people," said Kamaruddin. - Mkini