The fund will be known as Tiram (the Malay acronym for the Malaysian People’s Aspiration Fund) and PR has set an initial target of collecting an estimated RM20 million to conduct activities that will help create a better understanding of the concept of democracy.
Izham Hashim, the organiser of Tiram’s official launch tomorrow night, said that the purpose of the special fund is to educate and create awareness among members of society about their responsibilities as citizens, as well as knowledge concerning the federal constitution, elections and good governance.
Izham told The Malaysian Insider that the idea was first mooted by Kelantan executive councillor Datuk Husam Musa, who will also act as chairman of the fund.
“The proceeds from the funds will be channelled to deserving organisations that are in need of funds to conduct activities that educate people on what is democracy. But the allocation will be determined by a board of trustees,” Izham said.
“Based on some cases recently including the death of Aminulrasyid Amzah who was shot dead by the police [and] Teoh Beng Hock who died during Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigations... we feel that there is a need for a non-governmental organisation like Tiram to help the people of this country to... educate them about their rights and responsibilities,” he added.
The launch, which will be held at Stadium Melawati here, will be attended by PAS spiritual advisor Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat and PR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. It will also see the attendance of people who have been “victims” of the government’s alleged abuse of democracy.
Tiram’s board of trustees include Tumpat MP Datuk Kamaruddin Jaffar, Izham, Ahmad Shabrimi Mohamed Sidek, Alex Ong Kiang Yen and Asmawi Mohamad.
The organisation will also focus on research work and activities “promoting a healthy, democratic system” for all citizens.
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