PENANG Islamic authorities are seeking help from the public to repair mosques, surau and religious schools that were damaged in the massive flash floods over the weekend.

State information officer Wan Ji Wan Hussin said the restoration of mosques and surau, damaged by the floods would cost over RM560,000.

“Seventeen of these religious institutions in the state were damaged in the disaster. The cost of repairs will exceed RM562,000.

“Several sekolah agama rakyat (religious schools) are also in need of repairs. So, they, too, need some financial aid.

“Apart from aid from the state government, the office of state religious exco Abdul Malik Abul Kassim and the Penang Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JAINPP) humbly ask the public in and outside Penang for help so that we can get the mosques, surau and religious schools back in operation,” he said in a statement today.

Mosques and surau were also used as shelters for flood victims. One surau in Taman Free School on the island drew nationwide attention when it was reported that non-Muslim families were given shelter there.

The muezzin, Sapno Tukijo, received public praise for opening the surau’s doors to non-Muslim victims.

“The disaster showed how people in Penang, both Muslims and non-Muslims, bonded and united during a time of need.

“We are also thankful that our non-Muslim friends were not too shy about seeking shelter in our houses of worship,” Wan Ji said.

The preacher also said all mosques and surau will perform solat hajat to pray for the safety of everyone in Penang in the aftermath of the disaster.

Those who wish to donate towards restoration efforts can bank in money to the Majlis Agama Islam’s (Penang Islamic Council or MAINPP) Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd account number 0702 5010 0369 36. – November 9, 2017.