MAIPS LAUNCHES 'DAPUR CAKNA' TO ASSIST FLOOD VICTIMS IN INITIAL STAGE

KANGAR, Nov 28 (Bernama) -- The Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPs) has introduced ‘Dapur Cakna MAIPs’, a first-responder initiative aimed at easing the burden faced by communities in the early stages of the flood disaster currently affecting the state.

MAIPs, in a statement today, said that the initiative is aligned with the Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDM) concept, which emphasises community participation as the primary support system for victims. The programme is funded through a special allocation provided by the council to ensure swift and effective assistance.

“The mosque management and amil (zakat collectors), together with the support of the entire kariah (community living near the mosque), have come together through gotong-royong efforts to prepare additional meals for flood victims housed in temporary relief centres (PPS) across the state.

“This initiative is spearheaded by mosque committees and volunteers from the congregation, who selflessly dedicate their time to prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner for those affected,” MAIPs said.

Meanwhile, in the same statement, the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, stressed that there must be no compromise on food safety and hygiene, even amid the current disaster situation.

His Royal Highness emphasised that food safety principles must be strictly upheld, including ensuring proper food preparation areas, clean cooking spaces and equipment, correct handling of raw ingredients, appropriate cooking temperatures and safe packaging methods. He said that although meals are being prepared under time pressure to meet the needs of many victims, these standards must not be compromised to safeguard victims’ health and prevent the risk of food poisoning.

Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra also expressed his appreciation to mosque congregations across the state who have contributed, whether directly or indirectly, to preparing meals for flood victims through the ‘Dapur Cakna MAIPs’ initiative.

The Raja Muda of Perlis also hoped that this noble initiative would continue to be strengthened and further improved, inspiring more parties to come together in easing the burden of those affected.

“The spirit of volunteerism and unity shown by the mosque congregation and the local community not only helps reduce the hardship faced by the victims, but also strengthens bonds of brotherhood and reflects the resilience of the community in times of adversity,” he said.

-- BERNAMA