Establishing cordial relationship with the public is part of the community-policing programme undertaken by the newly-established Department of Crime Prevention and Community Safety of the Perak Police Contingent Headquarters, Ipoh.
To start the ball rolling, the department donated a number of wheelchairs and walking frames to the Buntong Community Rehabilitation Association recently. The handing-over ceremony was held at the association’s office located within the compound of the Tamil Methodist Church, Buntong recently. The department’s deputy chief, Assistant Commissioner of Police S. Suresh Kumar handed over the much-sought after items to the association chairman, S. Jayagopi.
The Buntong Community Rehabilitation Association was formed in 1999. It caters for the needs of those with physical disabilities in this part of Ipoh. The association has been with the Buntong church since its formation. However, it has been told to move out as the church requires the space for its Sunday bible classes. And it has a year to do so.
S. Jayagopi is in a fix, as the grace period is fast approaching. Although he has asked for a temporary reprieve, the church is adamant that they move out as planned. The association made several applications for a new site to the state government but was turned down.
“We’re grateful to the church for providing us the space but we understand their limitations. We haven’t given up hope yet. I feel the state government will relent, considering our predicament,” he told Ipoh Echo.
Jayagopi took the opportunity to convey the association’s appreciation to the public and the Police for their unsolicited support.
“We’ve come a long way since 1999. We started out with only four clients and today we have some 800 registered clients, of all races and beliefs, who are using our services. Although the association receives annual stipends from the Perak Welfare Department, the Perak Turf Club and some well-wishers, the amount is wholly inadequate to cover our expenses,” he lamented.
ACP Suresh responded by urging the public, and those who care, to help the association in its hour of need.
“We, the police, are not only responsible for the community’s safety but its welfare too. I hope our little gesture will help bring us closer to the public, whose support and cooperation we seek in order to ensure a safe and peaceful environment,” he remarked.
Yvette
