Although it was a scorching hot day, over a thousand people made their way to the Charity Food Fair organised by Perak Palliative Care Society (PPCS) on Saturday, April 22.
As early as 7am, committee members, volunteers and sellers were all ready for action. They were busy setting up their stalls and preparing themselves for this annual event.
Traders were eager to sell their best home-cooked food providing the PPCS compound with an ebullient atmosphere. There was a splendid array of mouth-watering dishes, both local and foreign such as nasi lemak, fried kuey teow, satay, kimchi, rice dumpling, ice cream, baked macaroni cheese, cendol and others.
No sooner was the fair opened, hundreds of visitors, young and old, thronged the society’s compound at Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah where the event was held.
Visitors purchased items using coupons, which they bought earlier or at the fair itself. Proceeds from the sale will help maintain the society’s upkeep.
PPCS Volunteer Coordinator Cheong Sau Yen told Ipoh Echo, “Our society is committed to providing palliative care via home visits to those who need such care. Our services are provided free. Most of our funding is sourced from public donations and well-wishers. Thus, public support is essential for the continuation of our services to the community.”
A fried kuey teow seller, who wished to be known as Din, said response was overwhelming.
“When the organisers approached me I didn’t think twice. After all, it’s for a good cause. Most of the visitors are generous, they don’t mind spending,” he said. Din is well known in Ipoh for his fried kuey teow. He has been operating a stall at the Perak Stadium food court for over 20 years.
Madam Khor, a retired teacher, said she wanted to contribute something to the community and the fair provided her with the opportunity.
“I don’t mind waking up early to prepare 200 packs of nasi lemak. It’s tiring but the returns are good. I came to know about the fair from my daughter who is a volunteer. It’s only 10am but half of my nasi lemak is gone,” said one of the traders.
Dr Wendy Wong, who is also a medical consultant, was there to savour the many delicacies on offer. She came to know about the event from the hospital staff.
“The organisers and visitors are doing their part for the community. I hope more events like this are held in the future. A non-profit organisation that provides palliative care to those in need has my support and blessing,” she exclaimed.
Nabilah Hamudin
