Politicians urged to provide aid sincerely

KUCHING: Lawmakers have been urged to distribute relief goods and provide aid sincerely and without ulterior motives,

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah also  urged politicians and political parties not to use this trying time to campaign or advertise themselves during the distribution of Covid-19 relief goods to those in need.

He was commenting on an earlier call by the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections’ (Bersih 2.0) for numerous politicians in Peninsular Malaysia to stop displaying their names and photos on Covid-19 relief items purchased with taxpayers’ money.

“It is noble to help, but let that help be done with all sincerity, and not with any ulterior motives,” Abdul Karim said.

He said it was sad to see that even during this difficult time, there were some politicians who were still playing politics.

“I hope the rakyat can judge their insincere intention here,” he said.

Utilities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom echoed this sentiment and strongly advised politicians not to take advantage of the current situation.

“At this point of time, our focus is to assist wherever possible those who are really in need such as the B40 (low-income) group,” he said.

He pointed out that the movement control order (MCO) implemented on March 18 had already taken its toll.

“We do not need a hero but someone who is sincere in helping the needy, irrespective of their racial or cultural background and beliefs,” he stressed.

Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep also said that attaching the names or pictures of donors, especially politicians, was not necessary.