Mercy donates 5,000 tarpaulins for Sichuan victims

KUALA LUMPUR: Mercy Malaysia donated 5,000 tarpaulins worth RM250,000 for the victims of the earthquake in Sichuan, China.

Mercy Malaysia executive council member Dr Ahmad Faizal Perdaus on Tuesday handed the contribution over to Chinese Ambassador Cheng Yonghua at the People's Republic of China Embassy here.

Ahmad said they were sending over the tarpaulins as it had been specifically requested for.
"The tarpaulin can serve various purposes, as it can be used as a tent, or as floor covering. The victims are still staying out in the open and cannot return to their homes as there are still aftershocks.
"We have just discussed possible further aid," he said, adding that Mercy Malaysia had not sent a relief team as they did not feel it was necessary at the moment.
"China has handled the crisis very well, and what they need most now are supplies and resources, not manpower," he said.
At the simple handover ceremony, Cheng thanked all "Malaysian friends" for their contribution and help.
He added that China had already manufactured 400,000 tarpaulins for the victims, but they were still in need of another two million pieces.
The tarpaulins will be airlifted to Guangzhou on Thursday, departing at 9.30am before being forwarded to the quake area.

reference: The Star Online