KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) made a generous contribution of RM20,000 to the Media Prima Palestinian Humanitarian Fund, demonstrating its commitment to humanitarian efforts, namely for the people of Palestine.
The donation was handed over by USM's vice-chancellor, Professor Datuk Seri IR Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed, to Media Prima Berhad (MPB) Group chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Syed Hussian Syed Aljunid, at the Malam Gemilang Alumni & Industri USM at the World Trade Centre here tonight.
Also present at the event were Yang di-Pertua of Negeri Melaka, Tun Seri Setia Dr Mohd Ali Rustam; USM chairman of the University Board of Governors, Datuk Seri Dr Awang Adek Hussin; and USM Alumni Association president, Dr Mohamed Maliki Mohamed Rapiee.
The dinner was attended by about 400 successful alumni who have all branched out into different fields upon their graduation. The alumni, some of whom graduated decades ago, all came together from all around to also celebrate the university's 55th anniversary.
Speaking to reporters earlier, Abdul Rahman said the RM20,000 donation is from the USM Fun Ride: Peace for Palestine charity event held in October this year, as well as from the university's charity fund.
"USM collected RM10,000 from the proceeds of the Fun Ride: Peace for Palestine event we organised on Oct 26, and the balance is from the university's own charity fund.
"This initiative is not something new; USM has been engaging in various charitable causes, including helping the underprivileged B40 group and students from less fortunate families.
"In past years, we channelled some donations from the university's fund to a few Palestinian university students who struggled to cope financially, and also contributed to B40 students and a few of our staff who were badly impacted by the pandemic. So this year, for a change, we have chosen to donate to the war-torn people of Palestine," he said.
Abdul Rahman said MPB, through its Media Prima Palestinian Humanitarian Fund, has consistently supported the Palestinian cause by delivering essential items such as food packs, medical supplies, and temporary shelters to those in Gaza.
"These efforts are carried out in collaboration with reputable non-governmental organisations which are familiar and well-versed with humanitarian missions in that region," he said.
Meanwhile, Syed Hussian, on behalf of MPB, extended his heartfelt appreciation to USM for the support and contribution given to the Media Prima Palestinian Humanitarian Fund initiative.
"MPB emphasises its ongoing commitment to providing aid to those affected by the conflict and encourages continued public contributions for the Palestinian cause," he said, thanking all those who contributed to the fund.
Syed Hussian said anyone who wishes to support the Media Prima Palestinian Humanitarian Fund can pledge their donations to the following bank accounts:
Bank Muamalat: 1401 0008 8477 15
Maybank: 5642 7651 0331
Media Prima-NSTP Humanitarian has offered financial support to those affected by poverty and those who are unable to afford treatment for medical conditions since 1991. MPB has maintained its steadfast dedication to actively supporting individuals and victims affected by the tragic events in Palestine.