WHILE some choose to put food in their own mouths, many others are using this Ramadan month to feed the poor.

Items for distribution by IRM

Islamic Relief Malaysia (IRM) continues to relive this holy month’s spirit through its “Feed the Fasting” programme.

Under this programme, a person can donate RM50 for a pack of food intended for a family that can last for about two weeks.

Each pack contains basic food such as rice, flour, sugar, oil, salt, sardines, condensed milk and dates.

The programme targets the poor, single mothers, orphans and those who are listed under the state welfare department.
At the launch of this programme last year, IRM raised RM280,000 and fed 5,000 families through donations made by individuals and corporate bodies.

IRM is set to increase the target this year to 10,000 beneficiaries.

An IRM spokesperson says the fundraising activities are ongoing throughout Ramadan and so far, the response has been encouraging.

“It is fair to say that the increase in the cost of living has not affected our peoples’ sense of giving,” she said.

“Let’s just pray that the spirit of Ramadan would continue to live among us. The first distribution for this year was held in Rawang on Aug 24. Distribution was also made at Orang Asli villages.”

The target areas this year are in Selangor, Malacca, Perak, Kedah, Pahang, Sabah, Kelantan and Terengganu.

This programme is also being carried in 25 other countries where Islamic Relief is active. The international distribution is aimed at countries with food insecurity due to poverty, natural disasters or conflicts.

IRM welcomes participation and support from everyone. Those interested to be part of the programme can visit www.irm.org.my or call 03-89486334.