PUTRAJAYA – Malaysians whose food supply is affected amid the Covid-19 pandemic can contact their respective parliamentary service centres to apply for the food basket aid under the Economic Recovery and People’s Protection Package (Pemulih).
“Food is a basic necessity for every individual and family. So, those who are affected can contact their respective elected representatives for assistance,” Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun told a press conference at the ministry today.
On Monday, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced an allocation of RM300,000 to every MP to distribute food baskets in their constituencies, as part of the RM150 billion Pemulih.
Rina said the ministry has distributed 1.5 million food baskets since the first movement control order to contain Covid-19 was imposed in March last year.
On the #benderaputih campaign calling on those in need of food and other essentials to fly a white flag outside their homes, she said it will ensure those who are “left out” are given assistance.
Meanwhile, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Seri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said giving food baskets directly to MPs will expedite their delivery to the needy.
“The distribution will be quicker when there is less bureaucracy, like when (the aid) has to go through certain parties or ministries.
“MPs have teams at their respective service centres, and surely, they are closer to their constituents.
“I also feel that the government has learnt from previous rounds of food basket distribution. There’s a need to speed up the process.” – Bernama, July 1, 2021
