KUALA LUMPUR: Yayasan PETRONAS extended festive support to 1,600 families across Malaysia this year, distributing essential food items as part of its Uplifting Lives programme in celebration of Deepavali,.
Communities in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Perak, Johor, Kelantan, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Perlis, Kedah, Pulau Pinang, and Sarawak received packages of basmati rice, briyani masala powder, kesari flour, ghee, and curry powder, along with hampers of cookies and murukku.
These items were sourced from entrepreneurs involved in the MEKAR (Memampankan Ekonomi Asas Rakyat) Programme under Yayasan PETRONAS.
Its chief executive officer, Shariah Nelly Francis stated that Yayasan PETRONAS aimed to make a lasting impact through its corporate social responsibility initiatives by giving back to the communities.
“Deepavali celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the victory of light over darkness. Through this gesture, we hope to bring light and joy to 1,600 families this festive season.”
“Our festive season community programme is designed to spread joy and togetherness among all who celebrate, while also making a tangible difference for those in need,” she said in a statement yesterday (Nov 1).
The initiative was recently launched in Seberang Prai, with the event officiated by Pulau Pinang State Exco for Social Development, Welfare, and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Lim Siew Khim, and witnessed by state Social Welfare director Zakaria Taib.
During the launch, 150 beneficiaries from Bukit Mertajam, Sungai Jawi, and Kepala Batas received the food packages.
The Uplifting Lives programme, a part of Yayasan PETRONAS’ commitment to community well-being, aligns with the PETRONAS Sustainability Agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by supporting underserved communities during Malaysia’s major festive celebrations.