Zero poverty in Penang? NGO refutes claims with stark realities

Despite claims of zero poverty, the Penang Hindu Association (PHA) asserts that poverty remains a pressing issue in the state.

At a recent “Back-to-School” aid event held at Klinik Derma Sivasanta, PHA President Dato’ P. Murugiah shed light on the ongoing struggles of low-income families.

“The cost of living has risen steeply. Many families, earning below the RM1,700 minimum wage, live in hardcore poverty,” said Murugiah.

He added that rental prices and food costs have surged, leaving families struggling to meet basic needs. For example, a simple meal for a family of five costs around RM900 per month, a burden too heavy for many.

Murugiah urged sceptics to witness the ground realities. “Some families survive on just one meal a day. Anyone doubting this is welcome to visit our welfare events to see for themselves.”

Supporting Penang’s vulnerable families

At the event, 120 children from B40 families and orphanages received vouchers worth RM150 each to buy school essentials, such as uniforms, shoes, bags, and stationery.

These children, ranging from primary school to college students, face daily challenges of shame and exclusion due to financial struggles.

“We want every child to stay in school and feel included, regardless of their family’s financial status,” said Murugiah.

The event also supported orphanages like Crystal Care Centre in Penang, run by Reverend Dr Dawid Barnabas, and the Arutjyoti Vallalar Mandram Orphanage in Sungai Petani, managed by R.V. Krishnan.

In addition, PHA provides free spectacles to children with vision problems and has distributed ten laptops and tablets to deserving college students.

These initiatives are funded by the Penang City Council and generous donors.

Long-term impact and community support

Over its 25-year history, PHA has built a legacy of transforming lives. Many past recipients, now successful professionals, have returned to give back.

“Some of our beneficiaries are now teachers, doctors, and lawyers. They ask, ‘How can we help?’ and we encourage them to give back to society,” said Murugiah.

Beyond education, PHA offers bi-monthly free health check-ups and free legal services every Thursday night at its premises on River Road.

These initiatives aim to address not just financial hardship but broader community needs.

The Department of Statistics Malaysia set the national poverty line at RM2,589 monthly per household in 2023. Hardcore poverty is defined as incomes below RM1,198, yet many families earn far less.

PHA’s efforts highlight the importance of sustained community support. Councillor Nicholas Theng Jie Wey, who officiated the event, praised organisations helping the underprivileged and urged more people to step forward.

As Murugiah aptly put it: “Together, we can fight poverty and ensure no child is left behind.”

For more information or to support PHA’s initiatives, contact Dato’ P. Murugiah at 016-4449246.