When consultant cardiologist Dr Imran Hafidz started Ops Telur Sardin (OPS) with Fadzhil Ishak, they aimed to help provide food packs to just 20 low-income families who lived around University Malaya Medical Centre.

Two years on, they have helped over 4,000 families.

As fewer families currently need their food aid because of the reopening of the economy, Imran says he hopes to provide free classes for schoolchildren and micro-loans for starting businesses.

Imran said he was proud of how OTS grew from a two-man initiative into a nationwide effort.

“We have distributed food items, medical supplies, and so much more to impoverished families all over the country with volunteers chipping in selflessly.

“In every state or city where OTS operated, there was a point person who carried out the logistics, procurement of resources, and final delivery.”

Imran said his experience with OTS has allowed him to meet those who were less fortunate than him and this has inspired him to keep going.

“A lot of people are struggling with poverty. It is our responsibility as decent human beings to keep our eyes peeled to opportunities where we can help in any way we can.

“Sometimes it’s as little as an RM50 note that is pocket money to some but allows a week of groceries to others, or it may just be a quick purchase of whatever wares they are selling to support them,” he said.

To those keen on supporting Imran’s efforts, follow OTS on social media via the hashtag #opstelursardin and help out those in need within your community.