by KT Leong
A brainstorming workshop by five clusters from Perak Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) registered with the Perak State Community Development Council (MPMNP), was held on 17 October at the Ipoh Red Crescent Hall.
A total of 104 participants attended the brainstorming meet which was graced by The National Community Welfare and Development Council of Malaysia (MAKPEM) president, Mr. Ainullotfi Bin Abdul Latif.
The opening speech was presented by YBhg Dato’ Dr Ramanathan A/L Ramiah.
The 5 clusters represented persons with disabilities (OKU) with 21 NGOs, orphans with 8 NGOs, single mothers with 5 NGOs, senior citizens with 4 NGOs and welfare with 17 NGOs.
The topics of discussion covered the following issues:
- Vehicles registered under NGO names should be given fuel subsidies to reduce the burden on NGOs.
- There should be a Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for approving applications from NGOs, as approval currently takes a very long time. Which can be up to several months.
- Grants and allocations given to NGOs should be standardised, as they differ from district to district.
- Allowances for caregivers should be provided, as they are paid to care for bedridden patients, senior citizens and children with problems at NGO care centres.
- Courses for caregivers should be held from time to time.
- Counselling services are needed for orphans to reduce violence-related problems and difficulties faced by NGO operators due to a lack of counselling knowledge.
- Electricity and water charges for NGOs should follow NGO or domestic rates rather than commercial rates.
- The government should assist with the installation of solar panels to reduce electricity usage and monthly electricity charges.
- Monitoring by the relevant authorities should be carried out to ensure standards are always maintained.
This is to reduce operating costs and the emotional stress on NGO operators, as most NGOs do not receive grants or allocations, or the grants and allocations given are insufficient to cover the operating costs of NGO Care Centres.
