IT was a time when video conferencing tools like Google Meet and Zoom were foreign to many.
And the demand for laptops, computers and smartphones was high. Students needed these tools for their online classes.
The nation was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic and the state responded with the Penang E-Learning Computer Programme to assist needy students.
Dr Ngoo Seong Boon was among the few key players who were engaged to address the crucial situation.
“There were not many people who knew about video conferencing tools like Google Meet or Zoom back then and there was a lack of computer and mobile devices for teachers and students to conduct e-learning.
“It was a period of uncertainty. People did not know how long the Covid-19 pandemic will be.
“Digital gap was also an issue,” Dr Ngoo, who works in a multinational technology company, told Buletin Mutiara recently.
He said video conferencing was a norm for people who are in his profession.
“However, it can be challenging for those who are not familiar with the technology,” he said.
Dr Ngoo thanked the effort taken by the Penang government to help underprivileged students who had to take part in e-learning during the pandemic lockdowns.
“A few companies donated their used laptops and smart devices and the public also donated the solid-state drive (SSD). Three companies assisted in refurbishing the laptops before they were distributed to the schools for needy students.
“We also conducted a few classes to guide teachers to use video conferencing tools such as Google Meet and Zoom.
“Organisations such as InvestPenang and Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA), and state assemblymen, also contributed and put in the effort to make the Penang E-Learning Computer Programme a success.
“We sincerely appreciate the help rendered to the students during that difficult period,” he said.
Dr Ngoo said the situation became worse after that when people started to raise the ‘white flag’.
“More people lost their job and were in need of food. The pandemic did not show any sign of recovery.
“The people were feeling depressed and anxious, and social issues were rising.
“I was touched by the calls for help during the ‘white flag’ movement.
“Many individuals and organisations stepped forward to help those in need, but somehow, some help may be repetitive. Certain people may be receiving more aid, while others may not be receiving the help they needed.
“It got me thinking that we needed a task force or alliance to accelerate help to the needy and to avoid duplication of available resources.
“The idea received positive feedback from state elected representatives and close partners. That was when PgCare Alliance (now Penang Care Society) was formed,” Dr Ngoo recollected.
Penang Care Society has grown over the years and is now providing services like mental health aid, food aid, job aid, financial consultation, virtual care and telehealth service, to society.
Dr Ngoo was one of the ❤️ Penang Community Awards recipients who obtained his award from Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow recently for his selfless service to the community.
In thanking the Penang government for the award, Dr Ngoo said many people played crucial roles to help one another during the pandemic.
“This award is not for me alone. It is also for all of you (unsung heroes) who have contributed to getting us out of that challenging period,” he added.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Siew Chia En