After the inspiring success of the iconic Bendera Putih movement, the Malaysian government has finally followed suit and introduced the National Food Aid Programme, or the "Program Bakul Prihatin Negara". Over the weekend, Malaysians have started to receive this public service announcement text message:

What's in the food aid basket (worth RM50) :

• Rice

• Sugar

• Flour

• Vermicelli noodles

• Soy Sauce

• Sardines

• Biscuits

• Coffee

• Salt

For illustration purposes only 

How to apply?

There are a number of ways you can apply for the food aid:

1. Reach out to your respective Social Welfare Department. The contact number for each state can be found here, or refer to the Facebook post below:

2. Call the helpline directly at 15999

3. Whatsapp your info (name, IC number, address) to this number: 

4. Contact your local authority. 

If you're wondering, yes, everyone affected by the lockdown is entitled to this assistance, so do not hesitate to ask for help. For more info and the latest updates regarding this particular programme, you can join their official Telegram channel here.