KUALA LUMPUR: As part of its mission to help eradicate poverty in Malaysia, Yayasan Basmi Kemiskinan (YBK) today distributed 400 food packets to the homeless in the Masjid Jamek area here.
The foundation, which was founded 27 years ago, is determined to make a positive difference in the lives of the poor and disadvantaged in the country.
Its chairman, Datuk Zainal Abidin Sakom, said the “Program Santuni Gelandangan YBK”, which was initiated in 2015, oversees the distribution of 100 food packets to the needy every month.
“With continuous support and contributions from various organisations and individuals, we have now reached a stage where we can organise this program every Saturday each month,” said Zainal.
“Through these contributions (we feel we are giving something) back to the community from what we received from the Almighty,” he added.
Zainal said besides the distribution of food, YBK has been providing placement for the needy in hostels and at vocational training centres for students who did not excel in their examinations.
“We want the students to learn vocational skills so that they will be able to help their own families, and one day see them helping the needy as well,” said Zainal.
He thanked the management of Masjid Jamek for allowing YBK to use the premises as a point to distribute food to the homeless.
“We call on any organisation interested in running a soup kitchen to join us in this noble cause. The management of Masjid Jamek is always willing to provide its place here for this cause,” he said.
Zainal said he hopes that YBK would serve as an inspiration to individuals, especially students who would engage in community-based activities to help the needy.
“We don’t restrict this to any particular race or religion. When it comes to giving, we do it wholeheartedly. Even when we have the food pack distribution, we see people from all backgrounds thanking us and even helping us to keep the place clean,” said Zainal, adding that their latest food distribution marks their 40th monthly initiative to help feed the needy.
Organisations interested in lending a hand or partnering with YBK can contact them at 03-7875 0036.