TEMERLOH: Despite experiencing hard times, two NGOs here have continued to assist the needy and less fortunate.
Temerloh Dancing Association president Datuk Seiko Chew Kim Pong said several fund-raising events were held to raise money for its corporate social responsibility activities.
“We know many people are going through hard times, including some big companies and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that are struggling to stay afloat.
“Funds are not coming in as before, so our members decided to carry out small-scale fund-raising programmes in order to continue assisting the poor and deserving.
“For example, our members get together to make pastries and sell handmade souvenirs and channel the proceeds to welfare and charitable homes.
“Every ringgit counts, and we will continue to do our part to lessen their burden in caring for their residents,” he said when contacted.
Chew said members also visit old folks homes, sing and perform dances to cheer them up.
“It’s heartwarming and fulfilling to see the residents breaking into big smiles at our presence,” he said, adding that such visits were carried out throughout the year and not just during festivities.
Chew said besides promoting dancing and singing as a pastime, the association wants to encourage the younger generation to love and respect their parents and elderly folk for their contributions.
He added that filial piety was a tradition and noble value that must be preserved as part of nation-building.
Meanwhile, Temerloh Rotary Club vice-president Datuk Hiang A Li said many community-related programmes were still being carried out for the betterment of society.
Among its activities is the Back to School programme in which uniforms, socks and schoolbags are donated to poor families, especially Orang Asli pupils.
“We also organise blood donation drives to help replenish the government’s blood bank.
“Orang Asli residents in remote areas also benefit from our clean piped-water initiatives supported by other rotary clubs and private firms,” he said.
Hiang said he hopes these projects would help to transform, uplift and improve the quality of life for Orang Asli villagers in the long run.
During the massive floods in December 2021 and 2022, at least 12 hard-hit villages in Temerloh received prompt assistance from the club, with some 800 poor households receiving necessary new furniture and electrical appliances.
“We have been actively involved in assisting the people, especially residents of Temerloh and Mentakab, for over four decades.
“Our members will continue to strive together and provide humanitarian services, strengthen goodwill and harmony among Malaysians,” he added.
