Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are not allowed to send aid directly to their intended recipients to prevent them from being exposed to COVID-19, said Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Commenting on the NGOs' dissatisfaction in having to send their aid to the Welfare Department’s collection centre for channelling to the intended recipients, Ismail Sabri said the decision was made following advice from the Ministry of Health (MOH) for the safety of members of the NGOs involved.

“If they were to send the aid to the recipients themselves, whom they do not know if the individuals concerned are free from COVID-19 or not, we fear that they (NGO members) will be infected and then spread the virus to other members, as well as their family members.

“Even if they want to contribute, we have to care about their health,” he told a press conference after chairing a meeting of the Special Ministerial Committee on the Movement Control Order (MCO) here today.

Ismail Sabri, who is also Defence Minister, however, said the government was prepared to hear the views of the NGOs on the matter and would discuss with them on the best way to resolve the issue.

At the moment, it is not encouraged to hold meetings (with NGOs), but it can be done through video conferencing, WhatsApp application and so on," he said.

Ismail Sabri said the government appreciated the role of NGOs in wanting to help, but they should understand why the decision was taken.

Yesterday, the NGOs were told to channel their aid to the Welfare offices in the respective district, which now acts as the collection centre, for distribution to those in need.

Meanwhile, Ismail Sabri said RM5.8 million worth of essential goods from the government would be distributed by the Welfare Department to eligible recipients.

On free face mask, he said five million pieces would arrive in the country in a few days, with the first shipment to be distributed to the frontliners. -- BERNAMA