THE Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) presented hampers to 70 needy families at its premises in Lebuh Penang, George Town, in view of the coming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.
MICCI president Datuk Seri N. Gobalakrishnan said it was his association’s tradition to help ease the burden of the underprivileged during festive seasons.
He also thanked Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow for always accepting invitations to attend such events, which shows the state government’s care and concern for the welfare of the people.
Chow, on behalf of MICCI, presented the hampers, each worth RM80 and a green packet of RM50, to each family.
He expressed his gratitude to MICCI for extending a helping hand to those in need regardless of race and ethnicity, especially during the festive seasons.
“The state government alone will not be able to do everything for the people. As the state government, we greatly appreciate the involvement, role and contribution of non-governmental organisations for always coming forward with various efforts and initiatives of their own to help the less fortunate.
“Malaysians are very fortunate because of these NGOs. They help fill in the gaps and through their activities help foster peace, harmony and tolerance in our multi-racial society. This is the aspiration of the state government as well as the Federal government through the Malaysia Madani concept,” Chow said during his speech.
Also present were MICCI deputy president Datuk S. Partiban, MICCI vice-president Datuk SST Muniady, MICCI immediate past president Datuk N. Vasantharajan, MICCI secretary Datuk V. Munusamy, MICCI assistant secretary Patmanathan, MICCI treasurer Datuk M. Chandra Kumar, and Kassim Mustafa restaurant owner Datuk Salim Manshoor.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siew Chia En