A TOTAL of 150 needy families received Deepavali hampers from the Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) Penang.
The 150 hampers, consisting of essential items like rice, flour, milk, and other groceries, were to provide relief to those facing economic hardships.
In addition to distributing the hampers, each worth RM80, MICCI Penang gave RM20 to each recipient and provided food packets.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who graced the occasion, praised this charitable initiative.
“The total cost of this noble programme is about RM30,000. MICCI Penang has carried out a superb initiative to contribute to the group of underprivileged ahead of Deepavali celebration on Nov 12.
“Deepavali, the festival of lights, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness. It is a time to reflect on our blessings and extend a helping hand to those less fortunate,” Chow said before giving out the hampers at MICCI Penang office in Penang Street today.
MICCI Penang, which started off as Indian Chamber in the 1920s, has grown to be at the forefront of promoting economic growth.
Chow was delighted that MICCI Penang has been actively involved in various programmes to support local traders and entrepreneurs.
“The upcoming events and initiatives that MICCI Penang has planned are expected to be impactful. The programmes that are scheduled to take place next month are the ‘SME Programme for Businessman’ and ‘Ladies Confinement Programme,'” added Chow.
Chow also expressed his hope to participate in MICCI Penang’s 100th anniversary celebration next year.
MICCI Penang president Datuk S. Parthiban said they were doing their part to assist the needy.
“We hope that this small gesture from us can bring cheer for them,” he said.
Joining in the event were Batu Uban assemblyman A. Kumaresan, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI) general manager Datin S. Bharathi, MICCI Penang trustee Datuk Seri Dr K. Palaniappan, MICCI Penang deputy president Datuk M. Chandra Kumar, MICCI Penang honorary secretary Datuk Seri N. Gobalakrishnan, and MICCI Penang honorary treasurer Datuk S. Yuvabalan.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian