GEDONG – The culture of saving money throughout the year to perform the ibadah qurban is becoming more common among Muslims in Sarawak, reflecting stronger religious awareness and better financial planning within the community.
Sarawak Premier Abang Abdul Rahman Johari Abang Openg said the encouraging participation in this year’s Hari Raya Aidiladha celebrations showed that more Muslims are now prepared to make sacrifices for the benefit of the less fortunate.
He said many Muslims across the state willingly took part in the qurban ibadah as a symbol of sacrifice, compassion, and care for the asnaf and needy groups in society.
Speaking to reporters after officiating the 2026 Gedong State Legislative Assembly (DUN) N.26 Sacrificial Cattle and Meat Handover Ceremony at the Al-Kawthar Mosque compound on Thursday, Abang Johari described this year’s Aidiladha celebration as peaceful and meaningful.
“Alhamdulillah, this year we were able to celebrate Aidiladha peacefully and the response from the Muslim community towards qurban activities has been very encouraging,” he said.
According to him, the increasing practice of saving money in advance to purchase sacrificial animals reflects a positive financial culture among Muslims in Sarawak.
He pointed to the example set by members and staff of the Kuching North City Hall, who voluntarily save part of their salaries every month to jointly buy sacrificial cattle for Aidiladha.
“Today, the price of one cow can reach around RM10,000. However, through monthly savings, the burden becomes lighter and more manageable,” he explained.
Abang Johari said the willingness of the community to set aside small amounts consistently every month demonstrates good financial discipline and long-term planning.
“If someone voluntarily deducts RM100 from their salary every month, within one year they will have enough to participate in the qurban ibadah. What is important is that the spirit of sacrifice continues to live within the Muslim community,” he added.
He also noted that the qurban ibadah is not only about religious obligation, but also about strengthening unity and helping those in need through the spirit of gotong-royong and sharing sustenance during Aidiladha.
The Premier expressed appreciation to Muslims throughout Sarawak for continuing to uphold the values of sacrifice, generosity, and community cooperation during the festive season.
He said such practices help strengthen social harmony and ensure that the benefits of Aidiladha can be shared with underprivileged groups across the state.
The growing trend of collective saving for qurban activities is also seen as a sign of improving economic stability among Muslims in Sarawak, while preserving traditional values of unity and mutual assistance that have long been part of Malaysian society.
As Aidiladha continues to be celebrated across Sarawak, the spirit of sacrifice and caring for others remains an important pillar in strengthening bonds within the community.
