KUCHING – Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg with community leaders and corporate heads during Iftar held at The Waterfront Hotel here, Tuesday. Proceeds from the evening go towards local orphans and underprivileged youth for the holy month of Ramadan.
It was a joint initiative of three prominent state bodies, which includes the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), the Centre of Technical Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS), and the Development Bank of Sarawak (DBOS). Through the merger of these resources, these agencies sought to fill the void between corporate success and social responsibility.
The PERYATIM children’s centre and Toh Puan Hajah Norkiah Children’s Home in attendance were the central stars of the evening’s programme.
The presence of these groups represented one of the main goals behind the event, which works to promote inclusivity and show that despite socioeconomic status, joy from the season can be provided to both adults and children.
From the event, the premier of the festival sanctioned a qualitative amount of financial aid support for those welfare institutions in attendance.
A total of RM20,000 worth of mock cheques were presented, with RM10,000 going to PERYATIM and another RM10,000 to Toh Puan Hajah Norkiah Children’s Home. These funds will help with their day-to-day living and education of the residents.
Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Zohari also handed out Duit Raya to the children in a personal touch of care. Supplies of Sarawak’s festive season celebrate this tradition, and visibly beamed the faces of children as Gesang spoke, prompting empathy which encapsulates the spirit of Ramadan.
The night started with a spiritual vibe as guests attended a beautiful recitation of the Holy Quran. The Premier then joined the congregation for Maghrib prayers after the breaking of fast as per tradition. The mood was one of quiet reflection and camaraderie throughout the ensuing dinner.
The last night was ended with congregation prayers of Isyak followed by Tarawih prayer. The event held significance beyond just a formal dinner for SDEC, CENTEXS and DBOS’s staff and management, as it was also a moment to strengthen internal rapport and project Sarawak’s united front towards social welfare.
