Ahsmon (second right) handing over a food basket to Muta. At left is Kuching deputy police chief Supt Merbin Lisa. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (July 8): Ten families here received food aid from the Kuching district police, under the nationwide Op Bantu programme launched Tuesday by the Home Ministry to assist those facing food shortages amidst the current Covid-19 pandemic.
Kuching police chief ACP Ahsmon Bajah, who led the distribution team yesterday, said a list of 20 families was obtained from the Kuching Resident’s Office and Welfare Department.
“We have visited 10 families today (yesterday) including two in Kampung Tabuan Dayak. We hope the food baskets can help ease some of the burden of the needy families among us,” he told reporters.
He added that those in Kuching in need of food assistance are welcome to contact the district police headquarters.
Meanwhile, one of the food aid recipients, Muta Nyugan, 63, said he was very grateful for the assistance provided by the police.
“I am no longer able to work and currently living with my son who has a chronic illness, so this assistance means a lot to us,” he said.
He said he had previously applied for assistance from the Welfare Department but had yet to receive approval.
“I have applied for assistance several times before and the last was in December last year, but they (Welfare Department) told me that they needed to look at the situation in my home first,” he said.
He added he is grateful for whatever assistance given as he could no longer work due to health issues.