KUALA LUMPUR:The surge of COVID-19 cases in the country has prompted the Islamic Medical Association of Malaysia Response & Relief Team (IMARET) to contribute various medical and non-medical items to hospitals, health clinics and prisons in the outbreak's red zones since last month.

Its chief coordinator Dr Ahmad Munawar Helmi Salim said the aid had been distributed to hospitals, health clinics and prisons handling COVID-19 cases in Semporna, Tawau and Kunak in Sabah as well as Kota Setar in Kedah.

"As of yesterday, IMARET has distributed 13,000 units of personal protection equipment (PPE) including N95 masks, protective clothing and portable ultrasound scanners, as well as basic necessities for screening such as tents, fans, tables and thermometers, all of which were donated by Malaysians.

"IMARET took the initiative to contribute the aid to frontliners at health facilities and prisons following their high usage, due to the virus 'third wave' in the country," he said in a statement here today.

Malaysia recorded a triple-digit number of new cases since the last four days with the highest number at 317 on Oct 3.

As of Sept 14, IMARET has collected RM3.3 million from its COVID-19 Fund where RM2.8 million of it has been distributed to the targeted groups, in the form of medical and basic necessities including food.

"Those who are keen to make donations can do so through the team's CIMB account: 8600 703 709 with reference 'COVID19' or via www.billplz.com/ImaretCovid19," according to the statement.

-- BERNAMA