Proactive communities earn praises from ministers

PETALING JAYA: As authorities are overwhelmed in trying to keep Malaysians safe, every little bit the communities do to take care of themselves is not only welcome, but much needed, say ministers in charge of fighting the pandemic.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said he applauded the residents in low-cost housing complexes (PPR) in the capital, who have taken it upon themselves to disinfect common areas, educate residents, as well as in assisting frontliners in managing the pandemic.

“It is good to see communities taking their own initiatives in caring for and protecting themselves, especially communities living in big complexes, where there are many residents living close to each other, ” said Dr Adham when contacted.

“The Health Ministry is using every resource to fight the pandemic, and every bit of support from the communities is welcome.

“The B40 group is very close to my heart as these people are most affected by the pandemic as they try to keep themselves and their livelihoods safe. It’s important to ensure the safety of public areas where thousands of people, especially high-risk groups, ply every day, ” said Dr Adham.

Federal Territories Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa said he would provide assistance, including financial help to NGOs, to assist resident associations of PPRs.

“We encourage such efforts by all the resident associations of PPRs in the Federal Territories as this is one way communities can play their part in keeping each other safe

“We have launched the Community Empowerment to fight Covid-19 programme in the Federal Territories. Very soon, we will distribute free RTK-Ag test kits through representative groups.

“We hope with this, communities will be empowered and not need to rely solely on the government to keep themselves safe, ” said Annuar.

Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin said that such initiatives could be part of Dasar Komuniti Negara (DKOMN or National Community Policy).

Under this policy, resident associations can request to be trained to conduct and facilitate disinfection.

“During the pandemic, the Housing and Local Government Ministry is in charge of disinfection, which is usually conducted by firemen. The PPRs in Kuala Lumpur come under the authority of Kuala Lumpur City Hall.

“However, we welcome resident associations should they want to assist with disinfection of their respective areas.

“Community leaders are also taught how to monitor SOP compliance in their areas as the policy encourages community volunteers to help protect each other, ” said Zuraida when contacted.

She added that spray tanks and chemicals could be provided upon request.