PORT DICKSON: The five siblings who lost both their parents to COVID-19 will receive assistance and support from the Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Council (MAINS), said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri.

Zulkilfli, whose ministry will also collaborate in the effort, said school aid and other necessities would be given to Muhammad Haidir, 23, Muhammad Hairie Rodzi, 20, Nurhairieka Rodzi, 18, Muhammad Haiqiel Rodzi, 13 and seven-year-old Muhammad Khierzamani Rodzi.

He said the aid would help ease the burden faced by their grandmother, Faridah Mohd Shahar, 75, who is helping to care for the siblings.

"We also presented part of the aid they needed. Seeing their perseverance, I am confident good things and happiness will come to their family," he told reporters after visiting the siblings at their house here, today.

The siblings became orphans when their father Rodzi Tahar, 55, passed away at the Tampin Hospital on May 31 while their mother, Nazita Idris, 45, died six days later at the Tuanku Ja'afar Hospita, due to COVID-19.

Meanwhile, Faridah said she was touched by the kind gesture and thanked Zulkilfli for visiting them and handing over contributions to her grandchildren.

"I am surprised and did not expect the minister's presence today. He is concerned about the children's fate. We also received donations from neighbours who sympathise with my grandchildren," she said.

-- BERNAMA