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This year has been tough not just because of the global health crisis, but also for our mental state. According to reports, almost half a million Malaysians are depressed and nearly 500 people have attempted suicide in the first half of the year alone. That’s alarming!

The uncertainties of 2020 have led to many unfortunate situations and many of us know people who are currently struggling just to get by. In light of this, here are some small ways we can help cheer our friends and family who may be suffering now:

#1 Treat them to a surprise delivery meal

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This may not be the best time to take someone out for a meal as and when you feel like it, but it shouldn’t stop you from treating them. There are plenty of food delivery options out there, so just pick one and send a surprise meal to their doorstep. Better yet, cook or bake them something special. It’ll make their day!

#2 Round them up for some fun online gaming

Nowadays, your parents are probably happier to see you hanging out with your friends online rather than staying out late all the time. Find a fun new game to play and gather your buddies over a video call! It could help distract a friend who’s feeling down for at least a couple of hours.

#3 Be their listening ear

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Sometimes, you don’t have to say or do much to help a loved one feel better. Check in on your friend or family member and be their safe space to share what’s bothering them. Keep an open mind and heart, and just listen.

#4 Be a customer of their businesses

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Many people are turning to different means to put food on the table; some are even starting their own businesses to make ends meet. If you know somebody who’s starting a new product or service, let’s take this opportunity to #sapotlokal and share the love. It’ll mean the world to them.

#5 Help them find jobs

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Getting a pay cut or losing a job is the most difficult thing a person can face at any point in life. Remember these people who are affected and be on the lookout for potential job openings. Social platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn have also made it easier for us to send professional referrals. So, keep an eye out!

Patience, kindness and generosity can go a long way, especially during this pandemic. If it’s within your means, lend a helping hand however you can. In fact, there’s also zakat for Muslims.

Paying zakat isn’t just about being thankful for our income, it’s also about doing good for others, and helping the poor and needy. With the rising cases of unemployment and poverty, let’s learn to be more giving before the year ends.

If you’ve been missing your zakat payments this year, be part of the Kempen Year End Zakat (YEZ) and pay yours before 31 December 2020 to get a tax rebate and win over 2,000 prizes! The more people pay zakat, the more help can be given to the underprivileged… so get your friends to do their part too.

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You can do so at any PPZ-MAIWP counter, on PPZ’s official website, Door to Door service via Zakat Ride2U or Kaunter Zakat Bergerak (KZB), or with zakat collection agents via online banking and e-wallet.

Let’s settle your zakat now! For more info, call 1300 88 5757, email info@zakat.com.my or visit here.