KUCHING: The spirit of Ramadan was deeply felt as the Sarawak Premier officiated the Khatam Al-Quran and First Iftar Ceremony with Islamic agencies at the Sarawak Islamic Complex Hall here on Wednesday.
The ceremony, held in conjunction with the holy month of Ramadan, brought together Islamic leaders, state dignitaries and invited guests in a meaningful gathering centred on faith, unity and charity. The event was officiated by Sarawak Premier, Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari, who played a central role throughout the programme.
The ceremony began with the recitation of the Khatam Al-Quran. The Premier commenced the recitation with verses from Surah Ad-Dhuha before the concluding verses of the Holy Quran were read, marking the completion of the recitation. The solemn atmosphere reflected the importance of Ramadan as a month of reflection, devotion and community solidarity.
Following the recitation, guests broke their fast together in a gesture of togetherness. The congregation then performed the Fardhu Maghrib prayer before proceeding to dinner.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of duit raya contributions to 50 asnaf and mualaf from the Kuching and Samarahan divisions. The handover ceremony was officiated by the Premier and his daughter, Dayang Norjihan Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari. The contribution symbolised the state government’s continued commitment to supporting underprivileged groups, particularly during Ramadan.
After dinner, guests proceeded to the prayer hall to perform the Fardhu Isyak prayer followed by the Sunnah Tarawih prayer. The programme concluded with a moreh feast, further strengthening bonds among attendees.
Among those present were Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Secretary to the Sarawak Government Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Deputy Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Datuk Ibrahim Baki, Attorney-General of Sarawak Dato Sri Saferi Ali, President of the Sarawak Islamic Council Datuk Misnu Taha, Mufti of Sarawak Datu Khalidi Ibrahim and Director of the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department Mual Suaud.
The ceremony reflected the enduring values of faith, compassion and unity that have long guided Sarawak’s multi-religious society. As Ramadan continues, such gatherings serve as a reminder of the importance of spiritual reflection and social responsibility in strengthening the community.
