In early September 2021, the current Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, announced the COVID-19 Care Package (PPC). The initiative is set to benefit approximately 3.6 million B40 households as the nation heads to the COVID-19 endemic phase [1].
The care package includes a pulse oximeter, thermometer, four reusable masks, four rapid antigen saliva (RTK-Ag) self-test kits along with how-to-use guidelines.
“This effort, among others, aims at easing the financial burden of B40 households and preparing them towards new normal practices as well as helping them in protecting their families from COVID-19 infection.” Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob , Malaysia’s ninth prime minister [1]
The early recipients of the care packages are those who had benefited from the Bantuan Prihatin Rakyat (BPR), at least 8.4 million BPR beneficiaries [1].
“They comprise those who are married with or without children or single parents with children.” Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob , Malaysia’s ninth prime minister [1]
In an unboxing video recently broadcasted on TikTok, the Minister of Health, Khairy Jamaluddin stated that more care packages will arrive at the doorsteps of targeted households soon [3]. Further, he emphasised the purpose of the care packages.
“Use the self-test kit when you show symptoms, wear the masks when you are out, check your temperature and blood oxygen level when you feel unwell to make sure we are always in good health,” Khairy Jamaluddin, Malaysia’s Minister of Health [2]
An elated recipient of the COVID-19 care package (PPC) in Kajang, Selangor, Mohd Salleh Shafiei, 55 welcomed the aid and hope those who are in the rural areas would also receive the care packages.
“Two years into the pandemic, we are still witnessing many struggling with financial constraints, on top of having to equip ourselves with safety necessities such as face masks and hand sanitisers, let alone have an oximeter at home.” Mohd Salleh Shafiei, 55, COVID-19 care packages recipient [3]
Explore our sources:
1.Ministry of Finance. (2021). 3.6 million B40 households to receive COVID-19 Care Package – PM. Link
2. P.Y. Teoh. (2021). KJ unboxes Keluarga Malaysia care package in TikTok video. New Straits Times. Link
3. F. Solhi. (2021). Covid-19 Care Package recipients elated at receiving aid. New Straits Times. Link
