Johor bahru: For senior citizens such as Roslan Zapar and Jamil Arshad, Johor's Friday Charity Meal Programme offers more than just a free lunch every week. The initiative, implemented by the Johor government, has helped ease daily expenses for many residents while strengthening the role of mosques as centres of welfare and community engagement.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, a check at Kampung Baru/Air Tawar Mosque found that 175 food packs comprising rice and side dishes are distributed to congregants every Friday, benefiting various segments of the community, including senior citizens and the asnaf group. The mosque's chairman, Mohamad Nazir Chan, said the programme has received encouraging responses since its introduction and has enabled assistance to reach those who need it most. He mentioned that the initiative, inspired by the Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail, has also encouraged more residents to attend the mosque while fostering closer ties between the institution and the local community.

Mohamad Nazir expressed delight in receiving funding to implement this programme because of the benefits it brings to local residents. He noted that the distribution process has run smoothly and that the response has been very positive. Mohamad Nazir, who has led the mosque's management for the past three years, added that Kampung Baru/Air Tawar comprises about 300 households and that the programme has indirectly strengthened ties between the mosque and residents.

For Roslan, 67, the initiative has helped reduce daily living expenses, particularly for senior citizens and asnaf recipients like himself. The father of three expressed gratitude for the meals provided through the programme, which have eased his financial burden. Roslan, who suffers from gastritis, currently receives assistance from the Baitulmal and the Social Welfare Department, while earning an income through the sale of fertiliser.

Jamil, 72, noted that the programme has greatly helped him and his wife. He mentioned that one food pack is enough for them to share because his wife is no longer strong enough to cook. Jamil, a retired civil servant, emphasized the significant impact this initiative has on senior citizens like them.

Meanwhile, Kampung Baru/Air Tawar Village Development and Security Committee chairman Azmi Liman highlighted the programme's positive contribution to the community's wellbeing. He stated that the village has more than 2,000 residents, with an estimated 150 to 200 people living in hardcore poverty. Azmi noted that the programme not only helps those in need but also nurtures the culture of giving and strengthens the relationship between the mosque and the community.

Azmi also mentioned that individuals and non-governmental organisations have come forward with contributions after witnessing the benefits enjoyed by residents. He believes that such initiatives complement the cash assistance received by the people and help ensure the welfare of vulnerable groups remains protected. A review of social media posts found positive responses from netizens, who described the programme as a meaningful initiative for those in need.

For this year, the state government has allocated RM26.9 million for the programme at 538 mosques and surau throughout Johor. As of the first quarter, the Friday Charity Meal Programme had been carried out at 5,660 mosques and surau statewide, involving an allocation of RM5.66 million. Of this total amount, RM1.13 million came from contributions by participating mosques and surau, further strengthening their role as one-stop centres that balance religious obligations with community welfare.