By Ling Hui and Nur Ashikin Louis
KUCHING, Oct 23: The Malaysian Family Foundation (‘Yayasan Keluarga Malaysia’) is a new institution set up by the government to assist pandemic-affected children in obtaining support, especially education until they reach 18 years old.
This foundation was introduced by Prime Minister Dato Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob during the launching of the Malaysian Family (‘Keluarga Malaysia’) concept at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.
It is also one of the various programmes set in motion by the government in efforts to map out the nation’s journey towards recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.
This initiative, he said, was inspired by the true stories of 13 young children from two families, who lost their source of dependence and love to Covid-19.
“Nazurah Nabilah Benyajeed who is only 19 years old had to take care of her seven younger siblings, while Hadrami Hasil became the head of the family at the age of 11, to continue surviving with his four younger siblings. Ironically, Hadrami’s youngest brother is only three years old.
“These children are among the 5,173 children of the Malaysian Family who became orphans due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Just imagine, how great a responsibility they have to bear.
“What is missing are not only parents but also happy times, growing up as normal children.”
With a sense of humility, Ismail Sabri called on the entire Malaysian Family to share their love with these children so that they could enjoy lives like their peers.
“The Malaysian Family Foundation is a manifestation of love of the entire Malaysian Family, which we express together for the children affected by the pandemic.
“The Foundation will also extend its wings of protection to other children of the Malaysian Family, who need similar support. This is the meaning of inclusion, togetherness and gratitude in the Malaysian Family,” he added.
He thus urged all Malaysians to, together with the Foundation, help the young generations, in hopes that no more children of the Malaysian Family will have to go through suffering alone.
Ismail Sabri was accompanied to the event by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg. — DayakDaily
