KUCHING – The Association of Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders of Malaysia (PEKEMA) brought festive joy to 100 asnaf children through the PEKEMA Sarawak Raya Shopping with Asnaf Children Programme in Kuching.
Held at a shopping mall on Sunday, the programme provided each child with a Raya clothing voucher worth RM240.
The initiative allowed the children to choose their own Hari Raya outfits, giving them a chance to enjoy the shopping experience while preparing for the upcoming festive season.
Nancy Shukri, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development and Member of Parliament for Santubong, said the programme carried special meaning because the children were able to select their own clothing and festive items.
She said the approach offers more than financial assistance. Allowing the children to pick their own Raya needs brings happiness and helps them feel included as they prepare to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Nancy also explained that the recipients were identified with help from the Social Welfare Department Malaysia to ensure the aid reached families who needed support the most.
Organisers also announced a second phase of the programme, which will involve another 150 asnaf children, extending the initiative to more families in need.
Several community and organisational leaders attended the event, including Ismail Abang Saufi, President of PEKEMA Sarawak; Raja Petra Maruddin Raja Noordin, Vice President of PEKEMA Malaysia; Tapah Ata, Deputy President of PEKEMA Sarawak; Yusuf Roy Fitri Mohamad Jonny, Vice President of PEKEMA Sarawak; Ahmad Faresh Ahmad Zahid, Honorary Secretary of PEKEMA Malaysia; and Jimbau Munggat, Director of the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) Sarawak.
The programme offered more than financial support. It created a memorable experience for the children while highlighting values of compassion and community care.
By allowing them to select their own clothing, the initiative also gave the children a sense of independence and dignity as they prepared for the festive celebration.
