GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government has opened flood relief donation centres across the state to help the flood-stricken states, especially neighbouring Perak.
It has designated all state Welfare Department district offices to receive donations in form of essential items, mainly bottled water, milk powder and sanitary pads.
These items are identified as 'urgently needed' as some 2,000 people form 500 families have been displaced by the floods in Perak.
Those interested to donate these items can head to the Caring Society Complex at Jalan Utama, George Town or their respective district-level welfare departments. (see below)
Welfare workers are also on standby at the South Seberang Prai district in anticipation of possible floodwaters seeping in from southern Kedah and upper Perak.
State Welfare, Caring Society and Environment committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said presently, Penang has packed some 10,000 recycled clothing to be distributed to the flood victims.
He added the state executive council will convene soon for an emergency meeting to discuss other aid options.
"I will propose an emergency funding of RM1.5 million to be put on standby.
"If the state executive council approves, we will stock-up on foodstuff which will be later distributed to those affected by the floods," he said.
Phee added that the Penang had to shelve plans to send aid to the east coast states as most parts were inaccessible.
"We have contacted the flood relief centres in the east coast, they have advised us not to go as most major roads were closed.
"So, the closest we can go is Perak. Our neighbours were the first to give us a wish list of items that is required," he said.
To assist in relief centres in Perak, some 50 aid workers are on standby to be deployed to help with logistical and administrative work there.
"These workers will complement existing workers there, helping senior citizens, ladies and young children who are cooped up in unfamiliar surroundings," he said.
Those interested to contribute can head to the Caring Society Complex (Kompleks Penyayang) at Jalan Utama in George Town or call the Penang Welfare Department at 04-6505259.
Alternatively, the public can also channel their donations to the respective district Welfare Department offices at:-
Balik Pulau - Kompleks Pasar Awam MPPP.
Kepala Batas - Wisma Persekutuan, Jalan Bertam, Kepala Batas.
Bukit Mertajam - 2nd floor, Wisma Hock Teik, No. 1778, Jalan Ciku.
Jawi - First floor, Block B, Kompleks Jabatan Kerajaan, Sungai Jawi.