KUCHING – A total of 450 individuals across Kuching received charitable assistance during the Mahabbah Ramadan Pilgrimage Programme, an initiative organised by the Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS) throughout the holy month.
The programme was designed to ease the financial strain faced by vulnerable groups while encouraging a culture of compassion and solidarity within the Muslim community. It was carried out at three mosques, with each location supporting 150 recipients.
The first distribution took place at the Darul Islam Mosque in Kampung Bintawa Hilir, followed by the Darul Muttaqin Mosque in Kampung Buntal, before concluding at the Darul Salihin Mosque in Kampung Telaga Air.
The closing ceremony at Darul Salihin Mosque was officiated by Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, who also serves as Project Coordinator for the Regional Development Agency, Kuching North City Hall and Islamic Affairs.
In his address, Dr Abdul Rahman highlighted the importance of mosques as more than places of worship. He emphasised their role as centres for community unity and platforms for the advancement of the Muslim ummah.
He urged continued collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and local communities to ensure the success of welfare initiatives.
“I call on all parties including government agencies, non-governmental organisations and the local community to provide strong support and continued commitment in making programmes like this a success in order to strengthen the well-being of the Muslim community in Sarawak,” he said.
Beyond distributing aid to recipients, the Sarawak Islamic Council also contributed equipment and supplies to the participating mosques. This included a printing machine to support administrative work and facilitate religious and community activities.
The initiative reflects a broader effort to reinforce the role of mosques in uniting communities and enhancing their capacity to serve as centres of welfare and development.
Community leaders have noted that such programmes not only provide immediate relief but also strengthen long-term social bonds.
By combining charitable giving with institutional support, the Mahabbah Ramadan Pilgrimage Programme demonstrates how faith-based organisations can play a pivotal role in community resilience.
The event concluded with a renewed call for collective responsibility, ensuring that charitable practices remain a cornerstone of Sarawak’s social fabric.
