PETALING JAYA: When the going gets tough, Malaysians can depend on each other. That's certainly the message of the #benderaputih initiative on social media that has been going viral on social media since Tuesday (June 29) morning, with thousands of Malaysians pledging to do as much as they possibly can to help those who are in dire straits.

       As of 3pm, #benderaputih had garnered more than 16,000 tweets and counting. Although it isn't clear who started the initiative, netizens have called it a movement by Malaysians for Malaysians.

       Twitter user @elle_kj said in her tweet: "Aku bukan orang senang (I don't have it easy), but I know how hard it is bila kau tiada apapa (when you don't have anything). Please reach out if you need helps (sic), we are willing to help."

       The #benderaputih (white flag) movement aims to help those in dire need of food and essentials.

       The movement suggests that those who needed assistance fly a white flag or cloth outside their homes, which would let those who are able to help know which households could be facing extreme difficulties.

       The initiative arose amid growing reports of Malaysians being pushed to the breaking point by the ongoing pandemic.

       "This is a really good initiative," said Saiful Bahari, 31, who runs his own car detailing business in Simpang Pulai, Ipoh.

       "At least, knowing that there are Malaysians and people in your neighbourhood who are willing and able to help will help families or individuals who are in dire straits have some relief and hope even if it is temporary. And, for those who want to help, they don't have to go looking for families in need, they just need to look out for a white flag."

       Saiful reckons that there are many Malaysians who are in need of aid but don't know who to turn to or where they can go for help.

       His business has also been affected, being non-essential he's had to shut the workshop down during Phase One of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).

       "One of my staff told me that he had only RM1.77 in his bank account with rent, loan payments and bills which he can't afford to pay. It really made me sad. Although my business will remain closed till Phase Two of the National Recovery Plan which is a long way to go, I told him I will help as much as I can and promised to pay the staff their full salary this month at least. It’s my responsibility to take care of their welfare but if this goes on for months, I don't know if I can afford to," shared Saiful.

       Twitter user @hellodeena pledged her support for the initiative, adding that she would also like to help "furry friends in need".

       "Please help me spread the word. If you are staying in Subang Jaya and are struggling to feed your cats or dogs, please reach out. Our furry friends may need help too. Will do my best to send some pet food," she tweeted, using the hashtags #benderaputih and #kitajagakita.