IN a collaboration with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Penang Hospital successfully hosted its first-ever Social Work Carnival and ‘Rahmah’ Sale Programme (PJR) today from 9am until 5pm.
Penang Hospital director Dr Goh Hin Kwang emphasised the objectives of the event included promoting collaborations with outside welfare organisations and increasing community knowledge of the services offered by the Medical Social Work Department.
“Aligned with World Social Workers Day, celebrated on March 19 this year, this event focused on the vital role social workers play in advancing a more equitable society.
“Hopefully, the collaborative efforts of the Penang Hospital and the ministry will bring tangible benefits to the society, particularly those underprivileged patients. A special note of gratitude is extended to all contributors who have generously supported the Malaysian Medical Welfare Fund as part of this programme,” Dr Goh said.
Attracting an estimated 6,000 attendees, including hospital staff and members of the public, the carnival featured 35 stalls offering a variety of food and goods.
Penang Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen underscored the importance of providing access to affordable items for the underprivileged.
“The Rahmah Sale Program (PJR) is a programme organised by the ministry that offers price savings on daily necessities, with discounts ranging from 10 per cent to 30 per cent compared to normal local market price.
“This program aligns with our commitment to ensuring accessibility to daily essentials for all,” said Gooi at the opening of the carnival this morning.
Also present were Nor Faridah Zaidi, Penang Hospital head of the Medical Social Work Department; Dr Shameni Sunasundram, Penang Hospital deputy director (medical), and representatives from the Health Ministry.
Story by Nurul Hawa Farahin Hameddy
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi