KUCHING – About 1,000 bowls of Laba porridge were served to the public by the Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng and councillors at Kenyalang Market early morning on 24 January.
The porridge was cooked up by the Seng Tong Buddhist Association as part of an annual community event.
The programme is based on the Buddhist tradition and represents compassion, sharing and altruism. The delivery was made with the help of volunteers and community members, making it a special occasion filled with warm emotions and cultural-spiritual immersion.
In his speech Dato Wee said that such programmes are demonstration of unity and understanding within the diverse society in Kuching. Small gestures of kindness can help unite a community and promote inclusivity, he said.
He also thanked Seng Tong Buddhist Association for its contributory effort towards the society and bringing good values to shape the good life.
“They serve as a reminder for all of us that compassion and respect is the basis we need to build a harmonious society,” he said.
Goodie bags were shared and members of the public responded with great excitement, that this good deed was not only a reminder but a way of bringing people together in gratitude.
The residents explained that it was a heartwarming event that reaffirmed how cultural traditions are still relevant today in the community.
The Laba Festival, celebrated by Buddhists since ancient times, features the custom of eating porridge consisting of different types of grains, beans and nuts. The dish symbolizes blessings, unity and prosperity.
In Kuching, the annual giveaway has become a popular event linking culture with modern day communal aspirations.
The MBKS said it will continue to support community-building programmes that promote inclusiveness, mutual respect and social integration among the diverse communities in Kuching.
We are also working with all local organisations to keep cultural and charity activities for the wider public.
The event at Kenyalang Market brought to mind that shared traditions unite, and strengthen compassion and unity in Kuching’s multi-racial society.
