GEORGE TOWN: An old folks home in Solok York here may be closed as they could not pay the rent and electricity bills.
The livelihoods of the 55 residents - aged between 60 and 80 - of the Cameo Elderly Care Centre were at risk.
The home had not paid rental, electricity and water bills since February this year. The amount came up to around RM14,000.
A Chinese daily reported that the person in charge of the home, who wished to be known as Jeyah, 56, said the Covid-19 pandemic had affected the amount of donations received from the public.
She said the landlord had sent letters from lawyers twice, and if the home could not pay rent, they would have to move from the location.
Jeyah added that there were five residents aged between 30 and 40 who were mentally unstable.
"Most of the residents are homeless and do not have a family.
"Sometimes, we have to send the old folks here to hospitals or clinics for check-ups," she said.
When contacted, Penang MCA social movement bureau head Cheah Chin Woon said that although the landlord only charged a low rental, the home was still unable to pay.
"They did not pay and they have to move according to the agreement.
"We are looking for a solution, and support from the government is very important," he said.
He also thanked Penang MCA chairman Datuk Tan Teik Cheng for always having a golden heart for senior citizens.
Meanwhile, state welfare committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said he has received a report from the state Welfare Department (JKM).
"We understand that the home is not registered under JKM.
"However, Jelutong MP RSN Rayer and Datuk Keramat assemblyman Jagdeep Singh Deo are in the midst of helping them get their legal status.
"We are only able to give them grants after they have registered legally," he said.
Phee added that he was ready to work with any parties for the benefit of the people and not for a political agenda.
"I believe welfare is strictly for the betterment of the old folks and should not involve politics.
"We must work with sincerity and deliver sincerely to help those in need but not for our own private intention or any political publicity," he said.
