SOME 2.5 tonnes or 2,500kg of fresh vegetables have been distributed to the frontliners from both local councils, namely Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) today.
State Agriculture, Agro-based Industries, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman Dr Norlela Ariffin said the vegetables were donated by the local farmers in the state as a token of appreciation for the hardworking council workers during the movement control order (MCO) period.
“It is undeniable that these unsung heroes from both city councils have play a major part in assisting the authorities to enforce the MCO especially in wet market and other public places.
“Hopefully, the fresh vegetables given today such as cabbage, green mustard, spinach and cucumber can at least ease their burden to provide food for their families during this period,” Dr Norlela said in her speech before distributing the fresh produce at the City Hall in Esplanade today.
Joining her at the occasion were state Local Government, Housing, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo, MBSP mayor Datuk Rozali Mohamud and MBPP mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang.
Jagdeep thanked Dr Norlela for her efforts and also the local farmers for their contribution towards the councils’ frontline workers.
“Such assistance come at the right time when the holy month of Ramadan is just round the corner and hopefully it will benefit 4,991 council workers from MBPP and MBSP.
“The state government has also done its part by giving out a one-off payment of RM300 aid to the frontliners from both city councils. The financial assistance is a part of the RM75 million Covid-19 economic stimulus package to assist them during these trying times.
“This shows that the state government did not forget about them but values their contributions during the MCO period.
“I also would like to extend my deepest appreciation to all of our frontliners involving both city councils, who have worked tirelessly to ensure compliance among the public since the beginning of the MCO enforcement on March 18,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of Penang Island City Council