466,216 applications received for Bakul Prihatin Negara aid.

PUTRAJAYA: The Social Welfare Department (SWD) has received 466,216 applications for the Bakul Prihatin Negara programme as of yesterday, said the Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.

He said SWD has distributed 110,174 food baskets, benefitting about 388,801 households nationwide.

"The COVID-19 pandemic gives a huge impact on the lives of people in the country. I know there are still many out there who need assistance.

"Alhamdulillah, the Bakul Prihatin Negara programme continues to be actively implemented under any circumstances to help the people during this challenging period," he said today.

Mohd Zuki also thanked corporate companies for supporting the government's effort in channelling aid to people in need.

"Hope the noble effort will encourage others in the private sector to assist," he added.

This morning, Mohd Zuki together with Women, Family and Community Development secretary-general Dr Maziah Che Yusoff and SWD officials visited and presented food baskets to five families around Putrajaya.

The Bakul Prihatin Negara aid was launched by former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on July 15 as the government's proactive response to assist those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

-- BERNAMA