Continued Hope for Flood Victims

Jan 30, 2021

KUALA LUMPUR: The overnight rains on New Year’s Eve caused massive floods in various states across Peninsular Malaysia. Thankfully, hope is on the way. The 2020 Christmas Cantata entitled The First Christmas, a Psalm 33 production streamed virtually for the first time because of the pandemic, raised funds for the flood victims in several areas across Peninsular Malaysia.

“Sing to Him a new song; play skilfully and shout for joy” (Psalm 33:3). The cantata, which ran for approximately 45 minutes, successfully raised more than RM3,000 with the support of family and friends, parishioners and fellow Malaysians. It was broadcasted across various online platforms; Psalm 33, ArchKL and Malacca Johore Diocese YouTube channels where everyone had the opportunity to enjoy the festive cheer while tuning in from the comfort of their own homes.

The much needed funds were channeled to the Flood Relief Fund of the Archdiocese of KL, and were then donated to B40 families in Mentakab and Orang Asli families in the inland villages of Pahang. Thankfully, two lorries filled with groceries reached Kuala Rompin on the evening before MCO 2.0. The Orang Asli Youths have been  working relentlessly to deliver 525 packs of groceries worth RM120 each and 593 bags of rice to the residents of Kg Jong, Kg Sawak, Pekan, Chini, Kg Gong, Sega and Bukit Gong.

Compounded with COVID-19, the flood has been a challenge to these vulnerable families, particularly those with children and old folks. From Kuantan, there are another 1,000 grocery packs are being delivered to refugees and migrant workers in Kemaman, surrounding areas in Kuantan, Muadzam Shah, Pekan, Gambang and Kg Sungai Soi. Access to some places are unfortunately, cut off due to the continuous rain, but efforts are constantly being taken  to reach these communities.

As we sang of the angels’ announcement, this virtual cantata was a reminder that God wants people like you and me to announce the birth of Jesus to the “shepherds” of our day. He lives in the hearts of man. Let’s continue to sing the angels’ songs to the world in our daily lives. After all, Christmas is not as much opening our presents as about opening our hearts.

The Psalm 33 team would like to thank all donors for your contributions towards this cause. Your prayers and support mean the world as the band continues to bring people closer to God through their music and talents.

To contribute to the flood relief initiatives, kindly donate your love offering to the Archdiocesan Flood Relief fund as per the account details below.

Bank Name: Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad Account No : 14082 0011 091047
A/C Name: Titular Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur
Email: [email protected] (Please email a receipt and include the recipient reference if an official receipt is required) — Cassandra Wenceslas