KUALA LUMPUR, March 17 (Bernama) -- Veteran actress Margaret Gan expressed her gratitude for being among 50 recipients of aid at the Raya Sama-Sama event held at the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute (IPPTAR) today.
The event was organised by the Ministry of Communications in collaboration with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) and National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS).
Margaret, 82, said the assistance was an unexpected blessing, especially as it would help her prepare for the upcoming Syawal celebrations.
"I am truly happy, and this support comes at just the right time," she told Bernama after receiving the aid from Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
Also present were Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, Bernama chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, deputy editor-in-chief (Economy) Azlina Aziz, and head of Management Services and Finance Department Sharifah Zaini Syed Zain.
Other guests included IPPTAR director-general of Broadcasting Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman, director Roslan Ariffin, and FINAS deputy director-general (Management) Datin Rozita Waty Ridzuan.
Meanwhile, veteran singer Ayati Ahmad Tasrip, 66, who also received assistance, said the support was crucial, especially for aging artists facing financial difficulties.
"Opportunities for us to act or sing are scarce now. Special slots for veteran performers on television are rare, but Alhamdulillah, there are still those who remember us," said Ayati, known for her 1990s hit Khazanah Dari Malaya.
Malaysian Veteran Artists Welfare Association deputy president, Sandakiah Azez, described the event as a meaningful recognition for veteran artists who have contributed to the entertainment industry.
"This assistance is invaluable, as the association relies solely on contributions from the government, external parties, individuals, and private donors. We hope this support continues in the coming years," she said.
The Raya Sama-Sama seeks to enhance the welfare and well-being of 26 media practitioners and industry veterans who have contributed to the growth of the national media and creative industries.
Veteran artistes received cash aid from FINAS and festive attire sponsored by Deco Guru Builder Sdn Bhd, while media practitioners benefited from assistance via Tabung Kasih@HAWANA.
All recipients received shopping vouchers from Mydin and Yayasan AEON Malaysia to help with Hari Raya Aidilfitri preparations.
Earlier, Fahmi announced an allocation of RM50,000 for the Malaysian Veteran Artistes Welfare Association.
The association had previously submitted 10 key proposals for the ministry’s consideration, including more opportunities for performances in Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) productions and access to medical assistance.
-- BERNAMA
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