NIBONG TEBAL – Realising the plight of those hard-hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, a restaurant operator is taking an initiative to help those in need by offering free food.
The owner of Big Boss Banana Leaf Restaurant, M. Moganasundram, 37, said he is offering 100 packs of rice and side dishes for free daily to the public until January 26, which is the last day of the movement control order (MCO).
“If the MCO is extended, we will continue to do it (give free food). In fact, we were doing this when MCO was first implemented to alleviate some of the burden of those affected by the pandemic, especially those whose income was affected,” he said when met at his restaurant at Jalan Ooi Kar Seng here yesterday.
He said his restaurant would prepare the food and sides from 3pm until 5pm and pack the food for distribution from 6pm onwards.
“We usually change the menu for the side dishes everyday. The menu includes white rice, egg in sambal, fried fish, chicken, vegetables and gravy,” he said.
Moganasundram, who employs 12 workers at his restaurant, said he sets aside 10kg of rice, 100 fish, 100 chicken eggs, and 100 pieces of chicken and vegetables every day for the free food.
“My priority is not money, but instead to do good for fellow human beings, regardless of race and religion, because there are still those among us who are not as fortunate and are living in poverty. We have to help,” he said.
D. Puspamalar, 51, a housewife, said Moganasundram’s initiative was praiseworthy because there are many less fortunate people who need help and assistance.
“This effort should be continued, because many people are unable to work and have no income. They need help,” she said.
Goh Cheng Weng, 65, who lives alone in Nibong Tebal, said he would get free food from the restaurant sometimes.
“Sometimes, Moganasundram calls me to his shop, where he gives me free food. He knows I live alone and am poor,” he said. – Bernama, January 19, 2021
