THE spirit of togetherness shone brightly as Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo Sze Zeng brought early Deepavali joy to residents of two nursing homes in George Town, Golden Home Care and Bethesda Home, during a festive gathering on Oct 5.
It was organised by the Kampung Sirih Kebun Nyiur Village Community Management Council (MPKK).
As part of the celebration, Woo distributed 30 goodie bags filled with daily necessities such as rice, cooking oil, biscuits and other essentials to both homes.
“It is my pleasure to celebrate with all of you ahead of Deepavali.
“This is just a small way of showing my love and care for everyone here.
“I hope these necessities will be helpful, especially during these challenging economic times. Life may be difficult, but it must go on,” Woo said in his speech at Golden Home Care.
A buffet lunch featuring traditional Indian cuisine was also sponsored by Woo for about 100 guests, adding flavour and festivity to the occasion.
Known for his active support of charitable causes, Woo, together with the Kampung Sirih Kebun Nyiur MPKK, also contributed a mural painting depicting a group of elderly individuals, including one in a wheelchair, sharing a light-hearted moment.
The founders of Golden Home Care, K. Shanmuganathan and S. Iswari, as well as Daniel, founder of Bethesda Home (established in 1993), were among those present at the gathering.
During the event, Woo also shared updates on several positive developments in Penang, touching on economic and healthcare matters.
He acknowledged the economic challenges faced globally and nationally in recent years, but commended both the state and Federal Governments for their continued efforts to ease the cost of living.
“Over the past three years, our economy has been affected by the global trade war. But Malaysia is not alone in facing these challenges,” Woo said.
Woo highlighted the MySara initiative, through which Malaysians aged 18 and above receive RM100 credited to their MyKad, encouraging attendees to spend the aid wisely on household essentials.
He also shared his own experience with the Budi subsidy for RON95 petrol, which provides direct relief to motorists.
“Yesterday was my first time refuelling under the Budi scheme. My bill was reduced by RM18, bringing the price down from RM2.60 per litre to RM1.99. This really helps the people,” he said.
On healthcare, Woo announced that Seberang Jaya Hospital has been upgraded to serve as the North Malaysia Heart Centre, a significant milestone for patients on the mainland.
“Previously, heart patients had to travel to Penang Hospital and wait for their turn. Now, they can seek treatment directly at Seberang Jaya Hospital,” he explained.
He also shared updates on the ongoing RM700 million expansion project at Penang Hospital, which includes three new blocks, a multi-level car park, and 500 additional beds to ease congestion.
The festive mood was further elevated by traditional Indian dance performances arranged by Woo’s office, while Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Koay Gaik Kee led efforts to beautify the homes’ surroundings with new garden table sets and palm plants.
Woo concluded by encouraging the public to stay engaged and communicate openly with their elected representatives.
“If there are matters that concern you or issues that need attention, please share your feedback without hesitation. We can only improve when we hear from you,” he said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En