BETONG – Senior officials from the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) have visited several villages within the Betong division to offer direct support to families recently devastated by fire outbreaks.
The delegation, supervised by JAIS Director Sahibus Siyadah Ustaz Haji Mual bin Haji Suaud, toured the affected areas to assess the damage and provide emotional and financial comfort to those who have lost their homes.
The outreach programme targeted residents in Kampung Semarang, Kampung Beladin, and Kampung Tuie. These coastal and riverside communities have faced significant challenges following the blazes, which often spread quickly in traditional village settings.
The visit was intended to ensure that no victim felt abandoned by the state’s religious and welfare infrastructure during such a difficult period.
Accompanying the director was the president of the Sarawak Islamic Council, Yang Berbahagia Datuk Haji Misnu bin Haji Taha. Their joint presence highlighted the high level of priority the state places on disaster response within the Muslim community.
Also in attendance were the Betong Division Islamic Religious Officer and various local community leaders, who helped coordinate the distribution of aid to the correct households.
The relief package provided to the victims was comprehensive, focusing on immediate survival and the restoration of daily dignity. Families received direct cash donations to help cover urgent expenses, alongside food baskets containing essential dry goods and nutrition.
Recognising the spiritual needs of the villagers, the department also distributed worship equipment and other basic household necessities to replace items lost in the fires.
During the visit, representatives emphasised that the mission of JAIS extends beyond administrative duties, focusing heavily on the collective well-being of the ummah.
The department’s proactive stance in going “to the field” is seen as a vital component of its social responsibility framework, particularly when local residents are grappling with the trauma of a domestic disaster.
Community leaders noted that such visits are crucial for maintaining morale. The physical presence of high-ranking officials like Ustaz Haji Mual serves as a bridge between the government and the grassroots, ensuring that emergency assistance reaches those in need without unnecessary bureaucratic delay.
As the recovery process begins for the families in Kampung Semarang, Kampung Beladin, and Kampung Tuie, the visiting delegation offered prayers for the victims.
They expressed hopes that those affected would be granted the fortitude and patience required to rebuild their lives and that their future recovery efforts would be met with ease and community support.
