KUALA LUMPUR: Popular television host Datuk Aznil Nawawi or Pak Nil has been moved by the plight of flood victims around the Klang Valley who lost their homes and belongings last month.
The award-winning host decided to lend them a helping hand by setting up his very own free goods shop, Kedai Percuma Pak Nil in Bukit Canggang near Banting, Selangor on Dec 30.
"My friends told me that this village was one of the worst hit by the floods. I subsequently paid a visit and was so moved by the plight of the villagers as many of them were rendered homeless," he told Berita Harian Online today.
Aznil added that he and his volunteer friends cooked food for the villagers, and purchased ingredients with funds they collected via social media.
"We successfully prepared 1,000 boxes of meals in a day for the villagers, who were placed in flood relief centres. Some of them were lucky to have their homes still standing, and returned when the flood subsided."
Aznil realised that the best way to assist the villagers was to provide them basic necessities for free. With a little help from brands as Eskayvie and Nakada, which used to work with him in charitable causes, he obtained eggs, cooking oil, mineral water, blankets, pillows and nappies for his shop.
"We funded the purchase of these goods via donations from the public. My shop allows all flood victims access to the goods.
"At the same time, we welcome contributions of goods and cash which can be paid to my account on Instagram," said Aznil.
Aznil added that the time had come for Malaysians to set aside their political differences and work together to help flood victims.
"What is most important is that we are going all out to help the victims. Who knows, there may come a time when we need help too," said Aznil.
