Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim on Good Samaritan Food Donation Bill

The Good Samaritan Food Donation Bill presents the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, particularly in community support and philanthropy, said MP Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim. Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday (Aug 7), he pointed out that the exclusion of criminal liability will allow people and organisations to step forward and do more for the community. However, it is not a “cure-all” solution, he added. He said prudent parties may still wish to take certain precautions, such as obtaining waivers or disclaimers of liability from consumers, seeking indemnity from donors, conducting due diligence on donors where possible, providing training to volunteers and raising awareness among beneficiaries on the donated food. He stressed the need to strike a balance between responsibility and philanthropy. He also sought clarification on the issue of civil or criminal liability in the event of death from the consumption of donated food.