SUNGAI SIPUT PRIHATIN

"MUHIBBAH" BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN

2011-10-30T23:57:00.003+08:00

KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungai Siput, KSK Jalong and Persatuan Kebajikan & Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput has jointly organised the "Muhibbah" Blood Donation Campaign on 30 October, 2011 in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput.

This campaign was partly funded by LPKM through the 'senam cergas' programme grant.

55 donors turn up but only 51 eligible to donate. It was another "muhibbah" event as the donors are multi-racial.

Treated Water Supply

2011-09-07T01:23:00.000+08:00

6 "orang asal" settlements in Jalong Tinggi, Sungai Siput have proper treated water supply recently. It is a project carried out by JKOA to upgrade the living standard in the rural area.

Fresh water from the nearby river and streams were supply to the villages earlier. The water will be filtered before distributed to each household.

Now, almost all settlements in Jalong Tinggi has basic amenities. Only 3 settlements without electricity supply.

Economy Development

2011-08-29T00:57:00.000+08:00

The government through Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asal [JKOA] have initiated many economy development projects to improve the living standard of the 'orang asal' community. However, these initiatives will not be take of if there is no initiative by the people.

Kampung Pisang folks are lucky to have a young and energetic 'batin' (village chief), Nasiri. A 'batin' play an essential role to ensure the government plans are carry out and implemented well. He shall be sensitive to sense allocations and responsible to work it out with JKOA.

The Kampung Pisang folks are now embark to cocoa planting with the allocation and assistance from the JKOA. Hope this will be a successful project.

Hand Make Craft Hall

2011-08-28T00:43:00.003+08:00

As usual, I visited my 'orang asal' friends today. My first stop was Kampung Pisang. There is an amazing hall ..... This proved the craftsmanship of the 'orang asal'. The 'orang asal' handicrafts are beautiful. They plait bamboo and rattan mat, the rattan and bamboo can make wickerwork for walls.

The villagers has built a beautiful hall. This hall was build with tree trunks, rattan and zinc. The villagers built it together. This concept is known as 'gotong royong', where all the people in the village come out and do it together voluntarily. It took them almost a year to complete. All the building materials except the zinc were sourced from the forest.

The Perak State government contributed RM3,000 through Y. Bhg. Dato' Chang Ko Youn a year ago. It was only one of it kind in Jalong Tinggi.

"ORANG ASAL" - WHO CARES (2)

2011-07-23T18:16:00.003+08:00

I went to visit my 'orang asal' friends today, the infra problems are deterioting. The previous problems have been mailed to the Director of JKOA and the Parliament Coordinator; however no action taken till today. Today the new problems has been found!

The only bridge crossing Sungai Korbu to Kg. Kenang - Langkor, Kelah Baru, Pisang is in very bad shape now. It has been repair by the then ex-Works Minister who are also the MP for Sungai Siput. However, after he was defeated by the socialist MP in 2008, nothing was done! Is time to change this wooden bridge into a concrete bridge. More villagers using motorcycles and cars nowadays. Gone are the days where they walk to town. Chaos waiting the villagers if no prompt actions taken.

Road? No actions taken since my previous visit ..... need to mail another complaint to the Director!

RETENTION POND IS A BREEDING GROUND

2011-06-27T00:32:00.004+08:00

The retention pond in Taman Lintang Makmur, Sungai Siput which has been fully covered with water hyacinth has become the breeding ground for water cock (burung ayam-ayam)! 'Burung ayam-ayam' is a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. It is as big as a chicken; fly only a few meter and not high. It's colourful feather camouflage within the water hyacinth makes it difficult to see when the bird is in the pond. It eats insect, small fish and grain.

GOVERNMENT CONTRACT

2011-06-17T00:48:00.000+08:00

Government has implemented the Projek Perumahan Rakyat Termiskin [PPRT] a few years ago. These projects mainly found in traditional Malay kampungs and in a few urban areas. Hardly find it in new villages! This project has been extended to covered the 'orang asal' lately. The main objective is to ensure that all Malaysians have proper living.

There are many PPRT houses built in Jalong Tinggi over the years.The cost of building PPRT houses in 'orang asal' village is more expensive than those houses in kampungs. The reason is high transportation cost and difficult getting workers; however, the workmanship is beyond acceptance.

My recent visit to Kampung Kelah in Jalong Tinggi proofed it. The Batin house was built less than a year, few ceilings have been dropped off; no proper drainage and sanitation. This is the second project of 7 units PPRT houses for Kampung Kelah; the first project in 2008 was abandon. I have visited the earlier project site in late 2008.

There are complaints from other Batins too e.g. NACO window without glasses, sewerage tank without cover etc.

An official written complaint to the Perak State Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asal (JKOA) Director has been made.

DANGEROUS .... but no alternative!

2011-06-11T23:29:00.000+08:00

Kampung Langkor is one of the ten 'orang asal' village in Jalong Tinggi. There are about 80 people living in this village. A small stream flowing across the estate to Sungai Korbu. An iron bridge was built to cross this stream and it is only one way to this village passing through an oil palm plantation.

Due to no proper maintenance and erosion, the bridge is in danger to collapse soon. This has been shown to the BN Coordinator before (more than 6 months!) but no actions taken till today. I am sure that the Sungai Siput MP and Jalong State Assemblywomen would not know this because they have not visited these villagers since they are voted in as Member of Parliament and State Assemblywomen.

"Orang Asal" problem ... WHO CARES!

2011-06-05T15:57:00.014+08:00

I make frequent visit to my ‘orang asal’ friends in Jalong Tinggi since 2002. There are 10 ‘orang asal’ villages in Jalong Tinggi, Sungai Siput. Most of the villages have complete basic amenities e.g. tar road, electricity, treated water, school and health centre.

Dato’ Seri Samy Vellu, the ex-Member Parliament and Dato’ Chang Ko Youn, the ex-State Assembly for Jalong have contributed to the improved basic amenities in these settlements. The tar road was built several years ago, the electricity has been supplied to few villages since last year and recently the treated water was supplied. The schools, suraus and health centres have been built years ago. All these facilities are funded by the federal government.

However, since 2008, its seems that nobody taking cares of these public facilities.

The road conditions are very bad. Potholes every where along the road due to broken culverts, erosions etc. Some roads were damaged by the heavy vehicles. A meeting was held in early 2009 attended by Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asal (JKOA), Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR), all the effected Batins, the nearby estates representative and myself. A concensus decision has been made to stopped the nearby estates using the road as they were not cooperative to maintain the road.

Other roads caused by nature factors have been bought to the attention of the BN Coordinator a few months ago. The affected areas has been shown to him then. A local Malay daily reported that, the BN Coordinator visited the area about 2 months ago. He must have passed through these roads (the only route) and shall make an effort to repair or resurfaced it; however, no actions till today!

A few electricity poles were fell recently. This is not the first time. As far as I knew, it is the third time. The Coordinator has been informed. Sungai Siput TNB was told too. Since it happened so often, TNB shall make an effort to relocate the poles or some preventive actions shall be taken. Till today, the poles fell recently have not put up yet. The fallen poles with high voltage cable may cause danger to road user.

Where is the current Sungai Siput MP and Jalong State Assemblywomen?

The current Sungai Siput MP whom is a human rights activist and always assists the poor especially the workers … but what he does to assist the ‘orang asal’? Nothing brought up to the Parliament or the relevant authority. He likes cheap publicity e.g. caught by police for illegal demostration! Gooshh! He demo for other people not for his voters! He demo in other place not for his own constituency!

The Jalong State Assemblywomen busy organising “Road to Putrajaya” dinners to fund her newly purchased assets [maybe?] i.e. a bungalow in Heawood Garden and a double story semi-detached shop lots in Sungai Siput Business Centre …. and a brand new Honda CRV not long ago! In less than 3 years, she made not less than half million as the State Assemblywoman with a monthly allowance of RM3,500 ……Not a single word from the State Assemblywomen on the above issues too!

'MUHIBBAH' BLOOD DONATION

2011-05-16T00:05:00.006+08:00

It's my 28th. times!

KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, KSK Jalong, Persatuan Kebajikan & Komuniti Muhibbah Sungai Siput with the support of Hospital Raja Pemaisuri Bainun, Ipoh Blood Bank has organised the 2nd. "MUHIBBAH" Blood Donation Campaign for year 2011 in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah, Taman Muhibbah Aman, Sungai Siput.

The hospital staff in actions!

18,900 ml blood been collected during the 4 hours campaign. It is a truly "MUHIBBAH" blood donation as the donors came from all walks of life irrespective of races. Malays, Chinese and Indians volunteered to made this humanitarian activity a success.

BRAVO! Mr. Ananda (potential Jalong state assembly candidate?) do his part too!

At the same time, the Mother's Day was celebrated. Each mother was given a small present and a piece of cake as an appreciation.

A session of Senam Cergas Muhibbah (aerobic) was carried out earlier mostly attended by women from the surrounding housing estates.

The donors

Being the organizer and coordinator for the 29th times, I am very grateful to the support shown by the multi-racial volunteers. It is their support that encourage me to organize the blood donation campaign for the 30th times in this November.

"MUHIBBAH" Blood Donation

2011-01-16T22:15:00.000+08:00

Treasurer Sagaran

The donors.

Volunteers at work

The 'Muhibbah' Blood Donation campaign kick-off as the 1st programme for KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungai Siput. It was held today (16.1.2011) in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah, Kg. Muhibbah Fasa 2B. The blood donation campaign has been the annual affair since 2004. It was successfully held with the co-operation from Hospital Raja Pemaisuri Bainun, Ipoh.

During the campaign, 16,500 ml blood collected from 41 donors. 57 donors registered. 16 donors could not contribute due to low HB and low / high blood.

The next campaign will be on May 2011.

MELATI InitiaiveFor The COMMUNITY

2010-12-25T11:13:00.021+08:00

"Initiatif MELATI kepada komuniti" is a project initiated by the 1983 Sungai Siput Methodist Secondary School's Fifth Former. This is a project to assists school going orphans and poor family. 20 children irrespective of race, religion and colour were identified. They are from 3 Malay families, 2 Indian families and 2 Chinese families.

Each child was given 2 sets of school uniform, a pair of shoe and sock, a school bag and stationery. Monetary contributions collected from MELATI members and Persatuan Kebajikan & Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput identified the children. Stationery was generously contributed by a few good Samaritans from Ipoh. Thanks to Ms Mangaleshpary for her voluntarily and generous assistance.

MELATI stand for 'Methodist Lapan Tiga'. This group has been organizing reunion for the past two years. Almost all the 1983 fifth former has been located after lost contact for almost 30 years [since left school in 1983]. This is a truly 1 Malaysia group which was 'created' since 1973.

"MUHIBBAH' BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN

2010-09-27T13:13:00.076+08:00

The "Muhibbah" Blood donation Campaign was successfully organized by KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungai Siput and Persatuan Sukan Chin Woo Sungai Siput with the co-operation of Hospital Tuanku Bainun, Ipoh blood bank team. The campaign held on 26 September, 2010 in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah, Taman Muhibbah Aman, Sungai Siput.

23,600 ml blood collected at the campaign. It was a "MUHIBBAH" campaign as the donors are from all walks of life irrespective of race, religion believe and politic background. The situation was very harmony.

"MUHIBBAH' Blood Donation Campaign

2010-03-09T22:28:00.003+08:00

The "MUHIBBAH' Blood Donation Campaign was held on 7 March, 2010 [Sunday] in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah. This campaign was jointly organised by KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungai Siput and Persatuan Kebajikan dan Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput. The campaign started at about 10:00 a.m. with the assistance from Hospital Raja Pemaisuri Bainun's Blood Bank.

This campaign attracted 60 generous donors but only 49 acceptable. The rejects were due to either high or low blood pressure.

It was a truly "MUHIBBAH" campign as the donors were from all races. From my observations, the young Chinese donors were lesser compare to the previous campaign. Most of the donors are regular donors. Some requested to hold the campaign more often.

The next campaign schedule on 1 August, 2010. Hope to receive your tremendous supports!

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

2009-12-29T01:49:00.009+08:00

VIPs' visiting the pond

The Perak State, Jabatan Hal Ehwal Orang Asli (JHEOA) has approved 2 economic development projects in Kampung Pisang recently. This is part of the government effort to eliminate poverty among the "orang asli" comunity. This community has been identified as hard core poor and will effect the state government's plan to achieve developed state.

The canvass ponds

2,400 rubber seeds has been distributed to the villagers. 2,000 pieces of 'ikan keli' (cat fish) has been provided. 2 canvass ponds complete with water installation equipments were given recently. Tn. Haji Akram, the JHEOA economic development officer said that if these projects successful, more will be provided for the villagers. He promised to allocate 2 ponds of 'ikan puyu' and 30 heads of goat next year.

Cat fish

These is the effort by Batin Nasiri and me. Numerous written applications have been sent to the Menteri Besar and JHEOA. Meetings and discussions with the district JHEOA and Menteri Besar's office has been carried out. Y. Bhg. Dato' Chang Ko Youn, the Menteri Besar's advisor has been called to attend the meeting. The result was great!

Rubber trees - part of the development projects

My next plan will be assisting other villages to apply for the economic development project. There is a huge sum of allocation for this purpose yet to be distributed. I am optimisits that the "orang asli" standard of living will definitely improve by this assistance.

COMMUNITY SERVICE IN KAMPUNG PISANG, JALONG TINGGI

2009-12-24T01:06:00.022+08:00

With Roy Sudin, the youth chief

A community service programme was carried out in Kampung Pisang, Jalong Tinggi on 23.12.2009. The programme stared at 9.30 am was organised by Sungai Siput Youth and Sports Department. 40 youth from town and nearby kampungs took part together with "orang asli" youth.

Cooking time!

The community service started by clearing the road-side grassess about 500 meter to Kampung Pisang. Kampung Pisang is located in Jalong Tinggi about 12 Km from Sungai Siput. While the male participants clearing grassess, the female participants were cooking. After lunch, the male participants joined the villagers to build 2 canvass ponds for fish rearing project. This project was sponsored by JHEOA.

Preparing fish pond!

The foods were excellent! There are varieties of "orang asli" food e.g. nasi daun batam, nasi buluh, ayam buluh, petai bakar, ubi buluh, ubi bakar, embung pisang buluh etc. We enjoys the food very much.

Yummy foods, ori recipe!

After lunch, the participants were having telematch. The suppport were tremendous from both parties. This programme is successful by the number of participants, work done, volunteer spirits and the interaction between youth form differrent back ground, cultural, religion and education.

The children.

Telematch

The programme was officially closed by Y.B. Datuk Hj. Ahamed Fakeh Adam, Lintang State Asemblyman. Other VIP attendees were the JHEOA Kuala Kangsar officer in-charge (Pn. Norizan) and Sungai Siput District Youth and Sports Officer (En. Amer Izzuddin).

MUHIBBAH BLOOD DONATION 2009

2009-11-02T00:29:00.005+08:00

KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungei Siput and Persatuan Kebajikan & Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput jointly organised the MUHIBBAH BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN on 1 November, 2009 in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah, Kg. Muhibbah Fasa 2B, Sungei Siput. This is the second campaign for the year. The donors turnout is encouraging but not as targeted. The previous campaign attracted 60 donors but only 45 this time.

Friends Pharmacy Sdn. Bhd. and Boehringer Ingelheim (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. sponsored the free gift for the donors. The gift consist of Brands InnerShine Quince Essence and Pharmaton. Donor whom donated the most will also be given a special gift sponsored by Friends Pharmacy Sdn. Bhd.

From the record there are 2 donors donated 23 times. The organisers decided to choose Yu Tian Keong as he is a regular donor in the campaign organised by KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah dan Persatuan Kebajikan & Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungei Siput.

This campaign also shown that the women dominated the donors list.

COMMUNITY SERVICE - Rakan Muda Kampung Baru

2009-09-27T23:28:00.014+08:00

I was asked by the Sungai Siput Youth and Sports Department to assist in forming the Kelab Rakan Muda Wawasan Desa Kampung Baru. 7 new villages have been identified to form the Kelab, however, I only managed to formed 5 i.e. Sungei Buloh, Rimba Panjang, Jalong, Lintang and Lasah on 23.8.2009.

Chan Siew Khuan, Organising Chairman

2 programmes have been organised since the launching i.e. 3 x 3 basketball in Sungei Buloh N/V and Karaoke in Jalong N/V. These programmes were held in new village to attract the younger Chinese youth and to promote Rakan Muda to the villagers. The respond are good so far.

Youth volunteers

Mat Seri (left) and Meor (right) cutting grass

This community service was the third programme held by the Kelab on 26.9.2009 in Pusat Latihan Orang Istimewa Sungai Siput. The purpose of this program is to promote volunteerism among the young members. It is the government concern (and my concern too) that the spirit of volunteerism for the community and society among the youth are rarer by days.

Youth volunteers

Loh Sook Fong clearing debris

10 Kelab members came. Others were Mohd. Taufik and Mat Seri, Ms Loh Sook Fong and Meor Farhan (JBS). There are about 20 "orang istimewa' together with the centre's volunteers and committee members were there to greet us.

Volunteers helping hand

We cut grasses and cleared bushes in the centre's compound. Few minor maintaining jobs too. The programme last for about 3 hours.

Taufik repair pipe

I have to borrowed 3 grass cutting machines from Persatuan Kebajikan Komuniti Muhibbah, Sg. Siput, Kampung Pisang and Kampung Lawai [both kampung 'orang asli']. Petrol, 2T lubricants, glove, breakfast and other petty expenses were provided through the Rakan Muda. Upon completion, the volunteers and the 'orang istimewa' have "moon-cake" together.

I have plans to arrange other NGOs' to do community service in this centre. At least 1 NGO a month for maintaining and upkeep the compound. Anyway, I have identified the NGOs' and will be on actions soon!

"MUHIBBAH" BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN

2009-05-11T21:36:00.033+08:00

Generous donors - Amir & Khairul

G. Gopal, rare blood type (O- type)

10 May, 2009 (Sunday) is Mothers' Day. The whole world is celebrating Mothers' Day with joy. Children brought their mother to celebrate in restaurants, giving presents, go for vacations, etc.

Doctor, nurses from Hospital Raja Pemaisuri Bainun, Ipoh - Blood Bank on duty

However, KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungai Siput [Muhibbah Residents Neighbourhood Watch] celebrate Mothers' Day in a different way. We organised a blood donation campaign. This is the sixth 'Muhibbah' Blood Donation Campaign held in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah, Kampung Muhibbah Fasa 2B, Sungai Siput by KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungai Siput.

Iron ladies - Misi Ju, Lina, Mai

From the records, Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah [Muhibbah Community Centre] has being the blood donation venue for the eighth times. Persatuan Kebajikan & Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput [Muhibbah Community & Welfare Association] was the previous organiser. Later, Persatuan Kebajikan & Komuniti Muhibbah has jointly organised the blood donation campaign with KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungai Siput as both organisations served the people in the same area but different objectives.

Volunteer on duty, Azlina Nazri

This campaign received a tremendous response from the public. The volunteer donors have increase to 60 people. No goodies, no gift. Its merely a voluntarily donors. Personally, this my 24th blood donation campaign and the most donors so far. The lowest are 18 donors. I am touch with the response as it shows that my campaigns for the past 12 years has bears fruit. More people are aware of the campaign. Each time more and more young and new donors turns up.

This my 24th time and will continue .....

Furthermore, it is a caring Malaysians campaign as the donors are from various races. A caring Malaysia is for every Malaysian. Community service is from Malaysian to Malaysian irrespective of race, religious believe, political ideology etc.

I pledged to continue organising the blood donation campaign and hope more volunteers will come forward. I have organised the blood donation campaign twice yearly since 1999. This will go on and on ... !

HEALTH SCREENING - KAMPUNG ASAP, JALONG TINGGI

2009-03-23T01:33:00.068+08:00

Villagers waiting

The 3 Musketeers discussing on .... What!

I have regular programme with the 'orang asli' in Jalong Tinggi since 2001. At least 4 programmes annually. On 22 March, 2009 (Sunday), a health screening programme was held in Kampung Asap with the Pfizer Care-A-Van project. This is the second project done in Jalong Tinggi. The first project was in 2001 with the cooperation of LIONS Club of Ipoh Bougainvillea City and Pfizer Care-A-Van which was held in Kampung Kenang. This the my 3rd project with Pfizer Care-a-Van. The 1st in Kampung Kenang followed by a project in Rimba Panjang New Village a week after Kampung Kenang.

Villagers were attended

Checking lice

Saidi, the dewormer

The programme started at 10:00 a.m. Upon arrival at about 9:20 a.m.; before the team can do any preparation, the villagers from Kampung Asap, Kampung Landap, Kampung Kelah, Kampung Awal and Kampung Hektar were waiting. About 100 'orang asli' registered for screening. Most of the teenagers feel shy and some elderly have more conficence on the traditional herbs medication. The batins (viallage headman) and villagers were informed that it is a health screening programme. I am glad that Mat Seri bin Pandak, a KSK committee member was there to help us in translating. Other volunteers are Taufik, Khairul, Saidi and Taufik's wife. Few other members promised to help but did not turned up.

Khairul, the blood tester

The villagers waiting to be screen

Vitamins and deworming were given to the kids. BMI, cholesterol, sugar level and blood pressure test was carried out. People with negative result were counselled. Participants were taught on cleanliness and health awareness. As the screening shown that most of the villages have high blood pressure and kids are lack of iodine, an awareness campaign will be organise soon!

The programme ended at about 12:30 pm.

KAMPUNG AWAL

2009-02-10T21:00:00.023+08:00

The Balai Sewang in Kampung Awal

5 friends of mine and me when for a camping trip in Kampung Awal, Jalong Tinggi on 7-8 February, 2009. The purpose of this trip is to get to know the ‘orang asli’ more and sight seeing. Kampung Awal is situated at the side of Sungai Korbu. Henry, the village chief (batin) is friendly and young [early 30s].

The camp site

Taufik is eyeing the Batin post!

We arrive at about 8.30 pm. Saidi and Atoi arrived earlier have set the camps. We looks for fire woods upon reaching the camp site. Sahul, Taufik and me when to the ‘balai sewang’ (community hall) to meet with the Batin of Kampung Awal [Henry], Kampung Pisang [Nasiri], Kampung Kenang [Saidin], Kampung Langkor, Kampung Hussin [Adenan] and a few young leaders. It is a fruitful meeting. I received a lot of feedback from them which I would e-mail to the Director of JHEO or higher authority to overcome their problems.

Electricity is the main agenda. Secondly, the schooling problems for the ‘orang asli’ children; follow by uplifting their living standard and conditions. These are the problems raised during the meeting. I will bring their needs to the Sungai Siput District Office, JHEO, federal development department and state government soon. Assistance from international organizations may be require.

I have suggested that they attend fishery training ran by the Fishery Department so that they can earn extra income to improve their economy and living standard. Villages at the river side are suitable to rear fish. There are many ways to rear fish now days. What they need are training and assistance. I will try my best to market for them domestically.

Other economy development plans are planting tapioca which fetch high price currently, planting rubber in the hilly area and palm oil in lower ground. If they can secure the area from wildlife, maybe livestock is a good move.

The children waiting for their toys and clothes

Me and the kids with their toys

With the support from friends, some toys and children clothes were brought to the ‘orang asli’ kids. They are happy with their toys. I intend to bring more toys in my next visit. The parents were told to ensure that their children attend school. Cikgu Saidi explained to the 'orang asli' kids the importance of education and how to study. Taufik advise them to be good and mix around with other races in school. Sahul motivate the adults try their luck in town working in factory. Atoi have fun playing with the children.

Group photo

Cikgu trying his new dress!

Sahul is serious with the kids!

Batin Henry and 2 villagers show us how they net fish in the river. The river is not deep, only waist high; however, the river is stonely. About 30 minutes, about 20 fishes were netted. Batin Henry's wife fried it for us. Fresh fried fish! YUMMY!

The scenery in Kampung Awal is beautiful. Fresh air, greenery surrounding, the sound of water flow and voices of nature made us happy. What a life here!

Fish netting in Sungai Korbu

PPRT - KAMPUNG KELAH

2009-02-02T02:32:00.026+08:00

During my visit to Kampung Langkor on 1 February, 2009, I was told by the “Batin” (village headman) of Kampung Kelah that 7 Program Perumahan Rakyat Termiskin (PPRT) houses for Kampung Kelah was not complete. This programme was announced by previous Member of Parliament, Dato’ Seri Samy Vellu. I have checked the other houses which are built at the same time were completed and occupied.

Picture on the incomplete houses was taken and e-mail to the Director of Perak State JHEOA. He has replied that the contractor has been terminated and he has written to the Director General for additional fund to complete the houses.

I have informed the Batin and asked him to wait for the next few months; if no action taken I will remind the State Director and might write to the Director General personally.

DANGER ZONE! JALONG TINGGI..........

2009-01-12T01:48:00.024+08:00

Damaged road

Repairing work in progress

I was inform by Batin Nasiri of Kampung Pisang that the road to Kampung Pisang and Kampung Langkor was damaged due to the heavy downpour, flash flood and landslides. It rains everyday. There are about 500 villagers living in the kampungs were greatly affected. They can't go out to work and children can't go to school.

An immediate report was made to Sungai Siput JKR (Public Works Dept), JHEOA (indigenous people dept) and the federal development office. I have visited the area personally. Pictures have been taken and e-mail to the respective department’s head. Their action is prompt. Immediate action was taken e.g. estimating the cost of repairs and identified contractor.

On the 6th day after New Year, works was carried out by the JKR appointed contractor. I have a chance to meet the contractor during my visit. He is a pensioner previously attached to JKR. He knows his job well.

The people living in the other villages have organized ‘gotong royong’ to clear the landslide. The organizer try to get some fund to provide food and drinks for the volunteers. As a NGO, my organization and I do not have fund for this purpose; furthermore, school had just began and Chinese New Year is around the corner.

I have recommended them to seek fund from the respective political leader, current state assemblywomen and Member of Parliament. I was told that both state assemblywomen and Member of Parliament from the current Pakatan Rakyat government did not provide them fund.

I advise them to use the fund that has been allocated by the previous state assemblyman, Dato’ Chang Ko Youn to Persatuan Orang Asli Semenanjung Malaysia, Cawangan Sungai Siput and promise to get some fund in the future.

ORPHANS WITHOUT PARENTS

2008-12-28T00:16:00.031+08:00

Word of encouragement from the coordinator.

1 school bag, 2 sets of school uniform, 1 pair of school shoe, 3 dictionaries and some school equipments were given to 21 orphans in Sungai Siput on 28 December, 2008 by Komuniti Muhibbah Sungai Siput. This is the 5th year Komuniti Muhibbah Sungai Siput carry out such program. This program started in 2004. The function was held in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput.

Each orphan will receive monthly pocket money which will bank into their own bank account. RM30 for primary school and RM50 for secondary school. Incentive will be given to outstanding student in major examination and those excel in sports.

Ketua Kampung, Kg. Jalong distributing the items.

This is a community services by Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput. It is merely on volunteer basis and sincere without political agenda / motive and discrimination. Assistance will be given to all orphans provided that the criteria are fulfilled irrespective of their religious believe, race, family and political background.

The criteria set by Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput are only those orphans without both parents; who are not staying in the orphanage home and still schooling will be given the assistance. It is Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput principe to help and assists them.

Each orphan needs to fill up a form. It needs to be certified by the respective school administration as proved that the orphan is still schooling. Certification from the respective village chief (Ketua Kampung) and endorse by the Penghulu Mukim / welfare officer / state assemblyman or Member of Parliament. Each application needs to be supported by related documents.

Ketua Kampung, Kg. Sungai Siput distributing the items.

This program was initiated by Ng Kah Choong, founder and advisor for Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput. The objective is to assists those who have shown the importance of family values. The government and intellectual often said that family institution plays a vital role in capacity and national building. Today’s social decay is very much caused by the decay in family institution.

These orphans without both parents are staying with their elderly and weak grandparents; whom they themselves need attention from the younger generation. They are unable to look after their grandchildren. What’s make them wants their grandchildren to be with them? Why don’t they send their grandchildren to the orphanage home? The answer is the love from the elder generation to their younger generation and strong family values put them together. This is what we call family institution.

Some orphans are looks after by their brother / sister. They are young and just started working. Some not even complete their schooling. The above questions applies. Why? Love and family ties!

Why don’t the related government department and society look into this? These are the people that need help and assistance to survive. This program may be expanding to nearby area e.g. Chemor and Kuala Kangsar provided that there are enough resources to do so.

The school bags, school uniforms, school shoes and other school equipments were sponsored by Mr. Kirby Wang from Ipoh. 50 dictionaries [Kamus Pelajar Oxford Fajar] was sponsored by Metro Greentown Rotary Club while the remaining 2 types of dictionary were sponsored by the founder dan advisor.

Group photo.

We do this because we are MALAYSIANS! We assist because we CARE! We bring them together because we are CONCERN! We held it annually because we are COMMITTED!

2005 HUMANITARIAN AWARD NOMINEE

2008-12-06T23:44:00.010+08:00

Heeding Buddha’s call to help those in need
The New Straits Times, July 5, 2005

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia -- Ng Kah Choong is a 39-year- old civil servant with a big heart. The former chairman of the Sungai Siput Buddhist Association (Youth Circle) is no stranger to organising activities for the less fortunate.

Since 1998, the association has conducted two blood donation campaigns each May to coincide with Wesak Day and National Youth Day, and Ramadan, when stock at the blood bank is low. Ng himself has donated blood 15 times. Ng, now a committee member of the association, is also active in assisting orphans through the Muhibah Community and Welfare Association. His focus is on orphans staying with relatives.

The association started a programme last year to provide the orphans with school uniforms, bags and shoes, and a monthly allowance. In addition, children who excel in their studies are given monetary incentives. Recipients continue to receive aid until they complete Form Six. Eight orphans in the Sungai Siput area have benefited from the aid programme.

Ng has also participated in development programmes for the Orang Asli in Sungai Siput. Awareness campaigns on cleanliness, river and forest preservation, and health care have also been held for them.

Last year, Ng managed to secure a sponsor for an artificial leg for a 54-year-old logger from Salak Baru New Village, who lost a foot at work.On what motivates him, Ng said he was merely responding to the Buddha’s call to help those in need.

PROJECT "ORANG ASLI"

2008-12-05T19:02:00.029+08:00

The 'orang asli' community.

Community and humanitarian programmes have been organised in the Jalong Tinggi 'orang asli' settlement since 2001. The population here is about 2,000 people living in 11 settlements. Most of them earned their daily living from the jungle. Some works in the nearby plantation estates and some try their luck by planting oil palm and rubber. Some even try rearing cows and goats.

Joining the 'orang asli' for 'sewang'.

The 'orang asli' youth have been trained by Jabatan Hal Ehwal Orang Asli [JHEOA] in Pusat Giat MARA all over the nation. They are trained in motor and automotive repairs. Most recently JHEOA has sponsored 10 'orang asli' youth from Jalong Tinggi for the wiring course in Ipoh. It can be concluded that majority of the 'orang asli' youths are skill and semi-skill workers. Though they are skillful but most of them are not exploring their skill. They are happy living in the jungle. Only few far-sighted youth live in town.

Inspecting Perak State Youth Council volunteers distributing meal to the 'orang asli' kids.

My daughter (left) with her 'orang asli' and Malay friends.

These programmes in Jalong Tinggi 'orang asli' settlement could enhance better interaction among the children who have joint the programme. These kids are the future of Malaysia. They are Malaysian.

SINCERELY IN COMMUNITY & SOCIAL WORKS

2008-11-26T01:23:00.026+08:00

The younger generation seems not interested on community and social works though Malaysia government had done a lot of promotion through various government departments / agencies and NGOs'. What's when wrong? Is it the current education system? Family and surrounding influence? Lacking religious understanding? ......... or what else?

During Dr. Mahathir Mohamad era, the are frequent Malaysia Book of Records breaker. Nowadays it seems to be slowing down. It is good to promote creativeness and innovative ideas! NGOs', government departments / agencies and individual tend to compete to create records with their initiative. It is the spirits of MALAYSIA BOLEH!

During that period, I came across some NGOs' which I do not think it is the right way to promote innovative ideas and creativeness!

1st case

About 15 years ago, there is a national youth organisation had successfully collected 100,000 paints of blood through the blood donation campaigns national wide. It is good but only ONCE! Yet this organization is proud of what they did 15 years ago till today! Why don't they do it every year?

2nd case

A few years back (during Dr. Mahathir era), an international community club in Kuala Lumpur had organised a blood donation campaign. This club call on all its sister club national wide to do the same. This club wants to made a records to collect the most blood in a day! Bravo! It's a good move! The question is why ONCE? Why don't the club do it often?

From the above cases, it can be concluded that community and social works are done for fame! To my understanding, community and social works have to be carry out sincerely and voluntarily. Do it generously and whole hearted with kindness.

People will forget what you did to them;

People will forget what you said about them;

but.......

People will never forget what you did that touch their heart!

Let's create a caring, compassionate and gratitude Malaysian!

MUHIBBAH BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN

2008-11-20T00:07:00.037+08:00

The kind hearted volunteers - Azlina, Sahul, Norazman and Sagaran.

Sagaran, the Treasurer having his health check.

Khairul enjoy donating blood.

Hospital Raja Pemaisuri Bainun Blood Bank staff preparing for the campaign.

The MUHIBBAH BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN was held in Pusat Komuniti Muhibbah, Kampung Muhibbah Fasa 2B, Sungai Siput on 23 November, 2008 (Sunday). This campaign attracted 54 multi-racial donors however only 46 usable. This is the second campaign this year and the 3rd by KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah, Sungai Siput.

Ng Kah Choong, the coordinator in action SOON!

This is the 23rd campaign coordinated by me. This twice yearly campaign was carried out since 1998. I have has coordinated 12 campaigns for Sungai Siput Buddhist Association (1998 - 2004), once for Kelab Muhibbah Sungai Siput (2001), 5 times by Komuniti Muhibbah (2006, 2007), Majlis Belia Daerah Sungai Siput twice in 2005 and KRT Taman-Taman Muhibbah 3 times (2007, 2008). The blood donation campaign started in 1998 on my initiative.

As coordinator, I have donated 23 times and had pledged for organ donation in 2003.

Bravo! Generous donors.

ORANG ASLI PROJECTS

2008-11-19T23:45:00.024+08:00

Making stairs down the Sungai Korbu for ease water collection and washing.

At least 4 programmes was organised annually in the Jalong Tinggi "orang asli" settlement since 2001. There are 11 villages in the Jalong Tinggi i.e. Kampung Lawai, Kampung Hussein, Kampung Larik, Kampung Kelah, Kampung Asap, Kampung Landap, Kampung Awal, Kampung Kenang, Kampung Langkar, Kampung Pisang and Kampung Plantuk. Recently a new village was included i.e. Kampung Hektar.

Sanitation project.

Major programmes coordinated by myself were medical camp in Kg. Kenang with Lions Club, sanitation project in Kampung Landap-Awal with Majlis Belia Negeri Perak [Perak State Youth Council] volunteers, environment awareness outreach programme with Komuniti Muhibbah and integration camp with Kelab Anak Malaysia.

Environment awareness to upkeep river bank.

Old clothes for adult, women and children are frequent. These are not used clothes but old stock from a garment manufacturer. Toys are collected and distributed for the 'orang asli' kids too.

GRAVITY FEED PROJECT

2008-11-19T23:22:00.023+08:00

Meals with participants in Kg. Lawai, Jalong Tinggi.

My community services in Jalong Tinggi "orang asli" settlement started since 2001. The 1st programme was health screening project held in Kampung Kenang.

The Sungai Siput Youth Integration Camp [Kem Integrasi Belia] in Kampung Lawai on June 2002 in conjunction with the district youth day celebration was my 2nd. This event was jointly organised by Sungai Siput Youth Council [Majlis Daerah Sungai Siput] and Sungai Siput District Youth and Sports Department. I am honoured to be given the opporunity as organising chairman. I was the Vice Chairman of Sungai Siput Youth Council at that time.

Presenting souvenior from Dato' Haji Dzukifly Harun, Sg. Siput Youth Council Chairman. Dato' Chang Ko Youn (white shirt) and Batin Ngah, Kg. Lawai Village Head at the back.

The Sungai Siput Youth Council was initiated by me with the blessing from the then Perak State Youth Council Chairman [Majlis Belia Negeri Perak], Y.B. Dato' Haji Nadzri Ismail. Sungai Siput Youth Council was officially registered in 2001. The pro-term chairman was Y. Bhg. Dato' Haji Dzulkifly Harun who is elected as Chairman later. Currently, the chairmanship was replaced by his nephew Sdr. Zaim Padil.

With the RELA men in 'orang asli' house.

Kampung Lawai situated in the Korbu Reserve at about 1,000 metre from sea level. It is about 35 kilometres from Sungai Siput town. The ex-Sungai Siput Member of Parliament who is also the Works Ministry, Dato' Seri S. Samy Vellu had built a tar road leading to this village. There are about 30 families in this village.

80 youth from Sungai Siput and 35 'orang asli' youth participated which was initiated by me. The objective of this camp was to coordinate interaction, understanding and integration among the youth from various races as part of the district level National Youth Day celebration.

The participants has successfully completed the gravity feed project for the village. The purpose of this project is to channelled water from the stream about 2 kilometres deep in the jungle to the village. This project stand still to date.

Planting water pipe for 2 km!

Route leading to the stream deep in the jungle.

WHEELCHAIRS FOR THE POOR IN SUNGAI SIPUT & CHEMOR

2008-10-25T15:51:00.005+08:00

Persatuan Kebajikan dan Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput (Komuniti Muhibbah) with the co-operation of Greentown Rotary Club has contributed 8 wheelchairs [3 Chinese, 3 Malays and 2 Indians] to the old folks from poor family in Sungai Siput and Chemor. 1 electric bed was given to a paralyze Indian teenager in Kuala Kuang, Chemor. He was paralyze due to an accident a year ago.

Persatuan Kebajikan dan Komuniti Muhibbah, Sungai Siput is a registered community association for the residents of Kampung Muhibbah Fasa 2B, Taman Muhibbah Aman, Taman Muhibbah Jaya and Taman Muhibbah Jaya 2.

Community works is part of the association’s activity. It has carried out a number of charity activities before for the society irrespective of race, religion, colour and political background.