BY: AIZAT ROSLI

It is widely acknowledged that Malaysians are very passionate and compassionate about donating generously to charity. This has been a mainstay ever since the inception of the country and it has accentuated Malaysians to really give more and more as the need arises over the years.

Now that the Covid-19 pandemic has assailed us there have been many individuals and organizations soliciting for aid and donations especially monetary contributions that are dubious in nature.

This is why it is important that the Malaysia government, under the auspices of the Welfare Ministry and other related agencies, co-ordinate and vet  and screen all these people and organizations that are collecting donations for the poor and needy.

It is reportedly known that certain mosques, churches and temples are also involved in charity scams. But it is really Ali, Ah Kow and Ramasamy who suddenly spring up to collect donations that is of concern.

The heart should not rule the heart. Gullible, naive and unsuspecting Malaysians who are moved by false sob stories end up donating to scammers who gleefully fleece them of their hard earned money on the pretext of helping the poor and needy but pocket the donations for themselves.

It is advised that those who want to contribute to charity first assess the organization that they wish to give to and determine if they are established, reputable and safe, that they have checks-and-balances in place and accountability, before parting with their donation.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

** The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher