By Shukri Rahman

Port Klang, 5th Jan, 2005: Protasco subsidiary, Roadcare (M) Sdn Bhd, today joined hands with other caring Malaysian companies and organizations in their ongoing donations in cash and kind to assist the Tsunami victims in Acheh.

During a ceremony held at Wharf 16 Northport here, Roadcare chief operating officer, Encik Mhd Najili Sojo presented a symbolic backhoe key to deputy prime minister, Dato’ Seri Najib Razak. The backhoe was one of the 550-tonne items comprising dry food, drinks, clothing, medicine, tent equipment and heavy machinery, on board the Royal Malaysian Navy ship, K D Mahawangsa, which left Northport in its first mercy trip to Banda Acheh just after 5pm.

Sumatra has been the worst affected area in the earthquake and Tsunami waves tragedy which struck on Boxing Day. So far 94,200 death and 67,000 people are still unaccounted for in Sumatra alone.

In his address, Datuk Seri Najib said, “The donations mark the sympathy of the Malaysian government and its people and our empathy with the suffering endured by the victims, their families and relatives.” He added that it also reflects the close friendship and cordial relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia.

Indonesian ambassador, Drs Rusdihardjo expressed his gratitude to the support provided by Malaysia, adding that it was among the earliest and the most invaluable.

Led by Commander Abd Habib Abd Wahab, K D Mahawangsa set sail with 280 crew on board. After unloading, it will return to Northport before making another trip to Banda Acheh.

Meanwhile, it is understood that Roadcare staff is also organising a cash donation for the Tsunami victims.