SRI AMAN – The Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development of Sarawak and Simanggang State Assemblyman (ADUN) Datuk Francis Harden Hollis continued his Hari Raya Aidilfitri goodwill visits on the third day of the celebration, meeting Malay community leaders across Bandar Simanggang on Monday.
His programme began at 10am with a visit to the residence of KK Mostapa Tugo in Kampung Muhibbah Sri Aman.
Harden and his entourage then proceeded to KK Awang Kamarudin Awang Majid’s home in Taman Sentosa Indah, where he listened to concerns raised about the local drainage system before joining the host for festive meals.
Later, Harden visited KK Ahmad at Taman Harmoni, where discussions centred on community development and other local matters. The series of visits concluded around noon, marking the end of his Aidilfitri engagements in the city this year.
Speaking during the visits, Harden emphasised that such festive gatherings are not only about strengthening personal ties but also about understanding the challenges faced by residents.
“As a representative of the people, I will continue to go to the field to survey the problems faced by the residents in the Simanggang state assembly area and find a way to resolve the matter for their benefit,” he said.
The assemblyman highlighted that Aidilfitri provides an important opportunity to connect with community leaders, enabling him to hear directly about issues affecting their neighbourhoods. He noted that this approach ensures that development initiatives remain responsive to the needs of the people.
Community leaders expressed appreciation for Harden’s commitment to engaging with them during the festive season, acknowledging his efforts to balance celebration with attention to local concerns.
The visits also reflected the broader Sarawakian tradition of ziarah raya, where leaders and residents strengthen bonds through open houses and festive gatherings.
By combining cultural practices with community dialogue, Harden’s engagements reinforced the values of unity, inclusivity and shared responsibility.
As Hari Raya Aidilfitri continues across Sarawak, the Simanggang assemblyman’s outreach in Sri Aman serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership that remains close to the people, particularly during moments of celebration.
