Penang: The Zakat Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) has allocated RM4.8 million for the Nur Ramadan 1447H programme this year, benefiting 14,126 recipients statewide, said MAINPP president Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid. Mohamad, who is also Penang Deputy Chief Minister I, stated that RM3.3 million of the total allocation is earmarked for cash assistance, while RM1.5 million will be distributed as e-hampers to eligible recipients.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the assistance encompasses several categories of recipients, including 4,126 beneficiaries under the monthly financial and food aid scheme. Each recipient will receive RM800 cash aid credited directly into their bank accounts and an e-hamper worth RM100, redeemable using their identity card at designated premises. Additionally, 10,000 more recipients, identified through recommendations from mosque communities statewide, will receive e-hamper assistance to ensure broader benefits for asnaf groups.

The Nur Ramadan Distribution Programme is among the annual initiatives by Zakat MAINPP, reflecting a continued commitment to assist the asnaf, particularly during the holy month. Mohamad explained that the programme initially focused on poor and needy asnaf receiving financial and monthly food aid, but has since expanded to offer comprehensive assistance to better prepare the needy for Ramadan and alleviate their financial burden.

Furthermore, the state government has allocated RM25.3 million this year for the development of mosques and surau statewide, an increase from RM17.670 million last year. In addition to structural development and strengthening mosque governance, the state government emphasizes efforts to enliven mosques during Ramadan, with RM265,000 in Ihya' Ramadan contributions distributed to all mosques in Penang. The state government has also provided mosque enrichment contributions to various mosques statewide, totaling RM1 million.