PETALING JAYA – Former Petaling Jaya councillor Derek Fernandez has made it a yearly custom to distribute school bags to deserving students, a practice he has maintained for many years.
Even after ending his term as a councillor this year, he spared no change to provide 800 children with a more comfortable study experience ahead of the new academic year.
Fernandez, who serves as the chairman of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission Online Harms and Information Security Committee, pointed out that parents are compelled to spend a considerable amount to fulfil every school necessity, including clothing and food.
While the contribution may be perceived as inconsequential to some, he said every bit of assistance would significantly benefit each parent.
“Parents have to think about so many things, so if everybody (contributes) a little, it would aid them.
“We try our best to (accommodate the people). They are quite happy (with the bags). Some feedback we received said it’s the best bag,” he said after the Kongsi Rezeki programme in Bukit Gasing today.
Fernandez said the bags were designed to guarantee both durability and the safety of the children who use them, as they are made with multiple features and high-quality materials.
Besides being crafted from sturdy ballistic nylon, the bag also features reflectors to enhance user safety while walking in the dark.
When asked about the continuity of the much-loved programme after his tenure, Fernandez expressed hope that his successor would carry it on.
He also expressed his willingness to invest personal funds to sustain the programme.
However, he lamented the high production costs of the custom-made bags, noting that this year’s batch alone had already incurred expenses amounting to tens of thousands of ringgit.
Also present at the programme was Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung, who announced that Fernandez would be an adviser to the constituency’s service centre.
“(Fernandez’s) service will continue in a different capacity. I am confident that no one should have their contributions wasted, especially (Fernandez), who has served a long time in the city council,” Lee said in a speech.
Fernandez’s contributions to the residents of his zones have not gone unnoticed, as many have appreciated his assistance for the past 13 years.
“He has helped us a lot by providing support for our basic needs, such as vouchers for groceries,” said Esah, a resident.
“Such programmes frequently occur, and he consistently offers assistance both in the lead-up to the school season and during celebrations such as Aidilfitri,” added another resident named Nina. – March 9, 2024