Penang state government to support family of Malaysian survivor of Christchurch attack

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang state government will be supporting the mother and brother of Rahimi Ahmad, who survived the Christchurch terror attack

State Welfare and Caring Society Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh (pic) said he and Bayan Lepas assemblyman Azrul Mahathir Aziz were leaving to New Zealand on Sunday (March 17) at 3.30pm with the mother and older brother of 39-year-old Rahimi.

Rahimi is in a critical condition with a bullet lodged in his spine.

"We were told he is in critical condition and needs surgery to take the bullet out of his spine. It is Penang's duty to make sure his family members can get there as soon as possible to be with him," Phee said.

He said the state government was working closely with Wisma Putra to ensure that the trip will go smoothly and once there, security arrangements can be made.

"There are many Malaysians living in Christchurch. We will also try to meet them to see how they are doing," Phee said, adding that he and Azrul were instructed to go by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

In a statement, Chow said Phee and Azrul will represent the state.

"Penang will render whatever help we can. We ask Penangites and all Malaysians to pray for the people of Christchurch," he said.

Meanwhile, Lim Guan Eng issued a statement in his capacity as the DAP secretary-general praising the Penang government for going to Christchurch to render aid.

"The Malaysian government will be as one country to give aid, sympathy and solidarity to the three Malaysians hurt in the shooting," he said.