HUNDREDS of orphans and disabled people from five homes in Klang were treated to dinner and entertainment in conjunction with the 50th Merdaka Day celebration.
The event was organised by the Jalan Pulau Pinang Rukun Tetangga. Community leaders also attended the celebration.
Beautiful Gate Foundation for the disabled chief executive Sia Siew Chin, led a group of handicapped members in a wheel-chair dance at the function.
She said being invited to perform was a recognition for the disabled.
“We are happy to be able to celebrate this important day,'' she said.
Also present were Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat, Kota Alam Shah state assemblyman Ching Su Chen and Sungai Pinang state assemblyman Teng Chang Khim.
Ong said while Malaysia celebrated Merdeka Day, the special group should not be forgotten.
He said besides giving them financial aid, the public could provide them with skills learning opportunities in order for them to be independent and earn a living.
A little aid: Jalan Pulau Pinang Rukun Tetangga chairman Roger Tan (right) presenting a mock cheque for RM2,000 to Sia as (from left) Kapar MCA Division chairman Khor Siew Kim, Ong and Kapar MCA Division Youth Chief Datuk Song Kee Chai look on.
PJ UTARA MP Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun has stepped forward in aid of the disabled hawkers at the SS2, Petaling Jaya morning market.
At the request of Petaling Jaya Hawkers and Small Traders Association secretary Kok Kuan Yong, Chew has generously sponsored two canopies and two commercial umbrellas worth RM706 for the usage of the disabled.
Since last month, the disabled have been occupying five stalls at the market, selling newspapers, groceries, plants, and donated items such as glassware and soft toys.
According to Chew, the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) has made it compulsory for the hawkers to use umbrellas bearing MBPJ logos.
“However, with their small profits, they couldn't afford to purchase the umbrellas,” said Chew.
Chew urged MBPJ to allocate at least five per cent of the units in the markets for the disabled.
“The government has always encouraged the disabled to be independent by working to support themselves,” said Chew.
Beautiful Gate Foundation for the Disabled executive director Pastor Sia Siew Chin welcomed the public's contribution of reusable items.
Part of the proceeds from their business in the market goes to the foundation.
Glad to assist: Chew (standing, third from right) handing over an umbrella to Sia (in wheelchair). Looking on is Kok (standing, third from left).
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