GEORGE TOWN – The Penang Hindu Association (PHA) and Klinik Derma Sivasanta have made a public appeal for medical items to be bundled together as a first aid kit for distribution to the B40 and M40 groups.
PHA president P. Murugiah said low-income households have highlighted the need for essential items beyond food and masks.
“We have visited a lot of houses to distribute food and masks, and these families tell us that many people have been distributing foodstuff like rice, but there are other essential items that they need, too.
“It is indeed heart-warming to see people from all walks of life generously donating sundry items and food to the needy stricken by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“However, in addition to this, what also needs to be considered is the donation of basic medical items, which will come in handy in cases of emergency.”
He said many people have fallen sick due to the stress of trying to earn enough money to survive the virus lockdown.
There are also those who have secured vaccination slots, and may need medication like paracetamol to keep side effects, such as fever and body ache, at bay.
After speaking to several doctors, PHA came up with a list of medical items and medicines for poor families to have at home, including Vitamin C (500mg or 1,000mg), masks for adults and children, 50ml bottles of sanitiser, band-aids, disposable gloves, creams or sprays to relieve insect bites and stings, painkillers like paracetamol for adults and children, and “minyak angin” (medicated oil).
“For the needy, their first priority is to get food. We are not stopping donors from giving food, but it is also important for low-income families to get other essentials as well,” said Murugiah.
“If possible, other NGOs and assemblymen can also look into providing these items.” – The Vibes, July 30, 2021
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