For this family, the monthly food rations provided by Penang’s Mutiara Food Bank have transitioned from helpful supplement to essential lifeline. The food bank is a programme where food surplus is collected and channelled to the needy for free. Penang folk receiving perishables from the Mutiara Food Bank via the Taman West MPKK in Jelutong, Penang. By having the staples covered by the food bank, the couple could reallocate their limited cash. Mechanics of food rescueThe Mutiara Food Bank was established by the Penang government in 2017 as a response to both poverty and food waste.

Source: The Star January 21, 2026 11:14 UTC