Kuala lumpur: Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa has urged non-governmental organisations (NGOs), non-governmental Islamic organisations (NGIs), individuals, and influencers to adhere to established regulations when distributing food to the homeless in the federal capital.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zaliha emphasized the importance of registering with the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to ensure that aid activities are conducted in a systematic and safe manner, minimizing littering in the city. She noted the issue of cleanliness arising from excess food being discarded arbitrarily when distributed outside designated areas or schedules.

Addressing the Dewan Rakyat during a question-and-answer session, Dr Zaliha responded to Roslan Hashim (PN-Kulim Bandar Baharu), who inquired about measures to streamline cooperation between local authorities, NGOs, and welfare agencies to ensure orderly food distribution without causing pollution in the city. Roslan also sought clarification on the necessity of registering with DBKL before providing aid to the homeless.

Dr Zaliha highlighted that some influencers engage in food distribution activities merely for social media content, disregarding established rules and causing issues for authorities, particularly DBKL. To balance social kindness with city cleanliness, she stated that DBKL has designated three primary distribution sites: the Chow Kit Community Learning Centre, Medan Tuanku Homeless Service Centre, and the Kuala Lumpur Transit Centre for the Homeless.

"These activities are conducted in collaboration with NGOs registered with DBKL and the National Welfare Foundation (YKN). Currently, eight NGOs are collaborating with DBKL, and 14 with YKN," she added.

Dr Zaliha stressed the importance of selecting distribution sites that do not interfere with tourist areas like the Kuala Lumpur Golden Triangle, to protect the city's image. She warned that DBKL would take strict action against parties that disregard these guidelines and tarnish Kuala Lumpur's reputation.

To further ensure hygiene and food safety, Dr Zaliha proposed the distribution of food in retort packs and announced the introduction of the Outreach Mobile Centre initiative for food collection and distribution during festive seasons. This initiative aims to address the issue of contributors not delivering food to designated sites.

Dr Zaliha expressed optimism that these measures would encourage participation from hotels, corporate firms, and NGOs, leading to better management of excess food and benefiting those in need.