Facebook page of dubious NGO deleted after news published
MIRI: Hours after The Borneo Post report on the alleged non- profit non- governmental organisation ( NGO) that is said to be operating illegally here and publicly appealing for funds for the medical treatment of a two-year- old cancer patient, the organisation’s so- called Facebook page appeared to have been deleted, leaving no trace of any of its previous posts.
In its Facebook page, the alleged NGO said it was raising RM80,000 for the cancer patient to undergo treatment and surgery.
Following a complaint by a member of the public, The Borneo Post conducted an investigation on Tuesday on the NGO by searching their ‘address’ at Jalan Bakam, which proved to be an empty plot of land.
The deletion of the FB page clearly shows that the dubious NGO has taken notice of the report.
It has led to another question - whether it is a scammer’s latest tactic to prey on the generosity of Malaysians.
Inland Revenue Board ( IRB) assistant director and active volunteer Iqbal Abdollah, when contacted by The Borneo Post yesterday via messaging application, advised that Malaysians double check on the authenticity of such online postings before parting with their money.
It would be better for the public to at least do some research before contributing money and best if they could take the extra time to check through Inland Revenue Board (LHDNM) website (www.hasil.gov.my ) to verify the organisation whether it is a tax-exempted organisation. Iqbal Abdollah, Inland Revenue Board (IRB) assistant director and active volunteer
“It would be better for the public to at least do some research before contributing money and best if they could take the extra time to check through Inland Revenue Board ( LHDNM) website (www.hasil.gov.my ) to verify the organisation whether it is a tax- exempted organisation.
“At least, when you are donating money, you gain tax rebate from doing good,” he said.
For newly established nonprofit NGOs, Iqbal suggested that they apply with LHDNM first, to get tax exemption under Section 44 (6) of Income Tax Act 1967.
“We’ve heard about scams almost every day, therefore, the alertness against scams should always be on, and for those who are aware of any scam, they could always check with Bank Negara Malaysia and the police.
“In Sarawak, local authorities such as district officers ( DOs) give permit for any organisation or individual to appeal for donation. Hence, whenever you stumble on people requesting for donation at public places, it is legit to ask them for this permit,” he said.
He said statistics had shown how easy scammers could prey on the generosity of Malaysians.
“Statistics from previous donation drives for victims of Acheh Tsunami, Sabah’s earthquake, etc. show that Malaysians are good people who want to help. However, many are vulnerable to fall victim to these scams, hence, it is always wise to check properly before making any donation,” Iqbal advised.