MB: NGOs can help foster harmonious society

21 June 2010 , By The Star

The state government will always support non-governmental groups in getting people to voluntarily participate in programmes to cultivate a harmonious society.

“We have always been supportive of NGOs (non-governmental organisations) involvement in national building, especially in activities that lead to improving the quality of life and strengthening of national unity,” Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said.

“The state government and NGOs are cooperating in balancing the rapid development in Johor, especially in Iskandar Malaysia, by ensuring the people’s welfare through social activities and programmes.”

He said this in his speech before launching the Malaysian Buddhist Association (MBA) National Convention here yesterday.

Abdul Ghani said that the state government needed the support of NGOs and other voluntary movements such as the MBA in carrying out programmes that benefit a wider spectrum of the population.

Abdul Ghani also commended MBA on their humanitarian efforts such as the setting up of the Buddhist Free Clinic and its Long Hua Home for senior citizens.

He also urged the people to strengthen the family institution, as it was essential to enable the society to overcome obstacles.

In support of MBA, Abdul Ghani announced an allocation of RM300,000 this year as well as a further RM300,000 in order to assist the associations in their activities as well as for construction of a new building.