The Consulate General of China in Penang prepared 145 packs of personal protection equipment (PPE) for Chinese international students studying at UTAR Kampar Campus and currently staying in Malaysia. The PPE packs were delivered to Kampar Campus and the Department of International Student Services (DISS) was assigned to oversee the distribution of the items. Each pack consists of five pieces of masks, a bottle of hand sanitizer and hand soap.

Staff in charge of the distribution included DISS Kampar Head Ngan Mun Wai and staff Choy Kar Yan. Ngan expressed his gratitude to the Consulate General of China in Penang for their contribution and for further ensuring the safety of the Chinese international students. He also mentioned that the PPE will offer the Chinese international students a peace of mind in view of this pandemic.

UTAR President Ir Prof Dr Ewe Hong Tat also expressed his thanks to the Consulate General of China in Penang. “The University is very grateful for the contribution of the Consulate General of China in Penang towards the Chinese international students in Kampar. As we have continuously strengthened our efforts to ensure all students are safe and protected, the additional PPE provided to the Chinese international students will also be a great help for us. The university continues to prioritise the safety and protection of students through the safety and precautionary measures executed. We want all students to be safe, and I hope that students will also do their part to abide with the Movement Control Order (MCO) declared by the Malaysian Government, as well as the instructions and rules set by the university in view of this pandemic” said Prof Ewe.

He also reminded students to avoid mass gatherings, practise social distancing, frequently wash their hands and wear a mask where necessary. He also emphasised that students should have a healthy diet and to rest well in order to strengthen their immunity.

DISS Kampar was also assisted by Kampar Campus’ Student Representative Council (SRC) International Student representative Chen Jiayi. Chen, also a Chinese international student, mentioned that the PPE offered him and his friends a greater sense of safety knowing that they are still taken care of even though they are living abroad.

“Receiving the PPE was comforting because currently, the stocks for masks, disinfectants, and sanitizers are running low. So these items came at a good timing as well. We have been well taken care of by UTAR, and now with this additional PPE, we are certainly happy. As we continue to abide with the instructions of the University on staying safe, we also hope that other students are safe as well,” said Chen.

The Consulate General of China in Penang is an official representative office of the government of the People’s Republic of China, which has been established in Penang since 2015. The consular districts cover four northern states of Malaysia, namely Penang, Kedah, Perlis and Perak.