By Aida Aziz
Photo Balqis Jazimah Zahari
IPOH: In less than an hour, 500 fresh chickens were distributed for free to the public at the Taman Perpaduan Community Hall today.
This donation initiative was carried out for the second time by the Chief Whip of the Ipoh City Council (MBI), Datuk Mazlan Abd Rahman, who is also the Deputy Chief of UMNO Tambun Division, in collaboration with Koperasi Agro Perak.
As early as 8:30 a.m., people from the surrounding areas had already gathered at the hall to receive one chicken per household.
People of various ethnic backgrounds, including the Orang Asli community, came to receive the donation, which brought some joy to families.
“The first time we distributed fresh chickens was at an Orang Asli village nearby, and now we’re continuing it here in the Perpaduan Zone.
“This initiative is funded personally by me and Koperasi Agro Perak.
“We understand the current cost of living, and we want to share our blessings with the B40 group and the less fortunate. Any extras will be distributed to the surrounding community,” he said.
He further stated that the distribution will continue in the Tanjung Rambutan area soon.
Meanwhile, Najmi Ammar Mohd Abd Malek, 25, a resident in the area, said he appreciated the donation as a form of assistance for the public.
“I found out about the distribution through a WhatsApp group, and I came today to get a free chicken. Alhamdulillah, my mom can cook chicken today,” said the university student, who is currently on semester break.
Noraini Itam, 34, from Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Choh, said this was her first time receiving such a donation.
“I heard about it from the Tok Batin (village head). Thank you to Datuk Mazlan for the fresh chicken — now I can cook something decent today,” said Noraini, who is from the Temiar tribe.
Another recipient, Mohd Azad Mohd Hussin, 55, expressed hope that the donation would continue from time to time.
“Datuk Mazlan is always attentive to the community here and often comes down personally to resolve issues quickly when complaints are made.
“It’s not just the chicken — he’s helped in many other ways too, including food aid boxes for those in need,” said Azad, who earns a living as a food delivery rider.
A retired army personnel, Azad is also dealing with several health problems, including diabetes and seizures.
He shared that Mazlan frequently checks in and offers assistance to his family to help ease their burden.
