Perak gov't urged to channel fixed alllowances to NGOs

IPOH: The Perak Pakatan Harapan (PH) government has been urged to channel fixed allowances to all non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the state, in order for them to carry out various programmes and activities for the people.
Jaringan Muafakat Pertubuhan Islam Perak (Jamaiy) chairman Dr Khairuddin Abdul Malik said most NGOs could not play active roles due to financial constraints.
"It's hard for NGOs to be more actively involved and at the same time, need to look for provisions to cover expenses for planned programmes or activities.
"We leave it up to the state government on how much (allowance) is to be given to NGOs ... regardless of their names, be it Muslim, Chinese or Indian NGOs, we have to set aside racial and group agendas in efforts to empower the people," he said.
He was speaking to reporters after a dialogue programme between Islamic NGOs and the state executive council members, which was attended by State Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Datuk Seri Nizar Jamaluddin and State Education, Science, Environment, Green Technology and Information Committee chairman Dr Abdul Aziz Bari at the Perak Islamic Organisation Academy, here last night.
Khairuddin also urged the state government to hold a Third Islamic Congress to discuss various aspects including the problems faced by Muslims from all races in the state.
"The Congress will not only discuss on the aspect of Muslims but the broader scope of how Islam can benefit all the people through Islamic welfare, economic and justice agendas," he said.
He said NGOs and state government should always work together for the interests of the state and its people, free from political influence. — Bernama