KUCHING – The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, witnessed the handover of RM2 million in business zakat from the Bintulu Port Authority (BPA) to the Sarawak Islamic Council on 29 May 2026.
The contribution was presented by BPA General Manager, Dato Sharkawi Alis, to the Council’s President, Datuk Haji Misnu bin Haji Taha.
The ceremony underscored BPA’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility, with the authority consistently fulfilling its zakat obligations since 2018.
The Premier expressed appreciation for BPA’s initiative, noting that the authority has played an active role in supporting the welfare of the asnaf community.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies, statutory bodies, and welfare institutions in strengthening Sarawak’s inclusive social development agenda.
According to BPA, a portion of the zakat will be channelled into welfare programmes targeting vulnerable groups.
These include the poor, elderly, orphans, individuals with chronic illnesses, people with disabilities (OKU), and new converts in Bintulu.
The authority emphasised that the funds would be used to improve living standards and provide much-needed assistance to those facing hardship.
The zakat handover also reflects BPA’s partnership with the Sarawak Baitulmal Fund, which ensures that contributions are distributed effectively to those in need.
Through this collaboration, BPA has been able to implement various assistance programmes, including healthcare support, educational aid, and community development initiatives.
The ceremony was attended by BPA Chairman, YBhg Dato Sharkawi Alis, General Manager Kapt Hj Zakhir Khan bin Yusop, and members of the Board of Directors including YBhg Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah bin Zaidel and Puan Zulhaidah Suboh. A representative from MIPD, Tn Hj Latiff bin Coupon, was also present.
Since 2018, BPA has consistently returned one-eighth of its zakat contributions each year to fund local welfare programmes.
This approach has enabled the authority to directly support asnaf groups in Bintulu, reinforcing its role as a socially responsible organisation.
The zakat handover ceremony not only demonstrated BPA’s dedication to fulfilling religious obligations but also highlighted its broader commitment to community development.
By aligning corporate responsibility with social welfare, BPA continues to contribute to Sarawak’s vision of sustainable and inclusive growth.
