A TOTAL of 300 vouchers were distributed to residents of Perkampungan Juru to enable them to purchase daily necessities from the nearby wet market ahead of the Chinese New Year.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the initiative allows residents to buy essential items and festive supplies close to home while supporting local traders.
Assistance was also extended to needy dialysis patients in the neighbourhood.
Chow, who is the Padang Kota assemblyman and Batu Kawan MP, said the initiative reflects a practical and inclusive approach to celebrating the festive season.
“This method ensures that assistance reaches those who truly need it and, at the same time, preserves the spirit of the Lunar New Year by caring for one another,” he said.
He added that community-based initiatives are most effective when supported by strong cooperation between the government and civil society.
“The government’s resources are limited, but when community leaders and grassroots organisations work together, we can ensure that no family in need is left behind,” he said, thanking the Perkampungan Juru Village Community Management Council (MPKK) for its efforts.
Chow also expressed appreciation to non-governmental organisations (NGOs), volunteer fire brigades, residents’ associations, temples and corporate partners for their continued commitment to community welfare.
“I would like to thank all NGOs, including volunteer fire brigades and corporate partners, for their consistent and tireless efforts in caring for our communities,” he said, adding that grassroots networks play a key role in ensuring aid is delivered fairly and efficiently.
He further commended the Perkampungan Juru community leadership for enhancing the area’s image, noting the village’s remarkable achievement in the National New Year Village Competition.
“This reflects strong teamwork and community spirit,” he said, expressing hope that further improvements could be implemented following the recognition.
“With this achievement, I hope the proposed village archway project can be implemented to further enhance the area,” he added.
Chow also encouraged residents, particularly youths, to remain actively involved in community and volunteer programmes.
“ I urge residents to continue participating in community activities and invite young people with passion to join the volunteer fire brigade to serve the community,” he said.
He added that collective responsibility would help ensure a safe and harmonious living environment.
“With everyone playing their part, I believe this area will continue to be a good place for senior citizens, children and families to live,” he said.
Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao-Leung expressed hope that the initiative would help ease residents’ financial burden ahead of the festive season.
Chow also took the opportunity to visit a gazebo that had been successfully constructed by the Lions Club of Bukit Mertajam Horizon, during which he posed for a group photograph with its members.
Later, Chow, Gooi, volunteers and service centre staff distributed mandarin oranges to market-goers at the Perkampungan Juru public market.
Also present was Perkampungan Juru Village Community Management Council (MPKK) chairman Cheah Kim Weng.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat