More than 600 people attended a community carnival in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, where government, healthcare and social services were brought together under one roof.
The event at Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Multipurpose Hall in PJS 1/35 was organised by Guru Dharma Society (GDS) in collaboration with Petaling Jaya Social Welfare Department (JKM) and Petaling Jaya Zone 17 councillor Norah Mansor.
The carnival gave residents, particularly those in the B40 group, direct access to services from 14 government agencies including JKM, Social Security Organisation, National Registration Department, National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) and Selangor Zakat Board.
Free health screenings were provided by Sunway Medical Centre, LPPKN offered pap smear screenings and breast examinations, while residents were also privy to diabetic foot care advice.
There were also vocational training opportunities in baking, cooking and other practical skills, with full scholarships on offer to support skills development and employment.
Children and families also took part in community activities, with lucky draws, food vouchers and gifts distributed during the carnival.
GDS president Supriya Prasannan said the carnival aimed to raise awareness on government benefits while helping agencies better understand residents’ needs.
“We hope to build a sense of community and family, where people care for one another so that no one is left alone or feels alone,” she said.
Present were Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation chairman Hee Loy Sian, Taman Medan constituency coordinator Halimey Abu Bakar and JKM officer Perkas Rao Ramah.
