SIBU – Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi visited the Juma’ani Welfare Complex of Tuanku Haji Bujang (KKJTHB) in Sibu on Wednesday evening. The visit was organised to bring comfort and joy to the children residing at the facility, coinciding with the celebrations for Sarawak Day.
Upon her arrival, the Toh Puan was received by key members of the Sarawak Orphanage Welfare Board (PERYATIM). Among those present were PERYATIM Trustee Toh Puan Hayati binti Ahmat, Dato Haji Mohamad Yusnar bin Haji Natalie, who serves as the manager of the complex, and Laila Taib Welfare Complex Chairperson Puan Nor Aishah Tan Binti Abdullah.
PERYATIM Chief Executive Officer Puan Hajah Siti Hatizah binti Abang Sebit also welcomed the guest of honour, along with staff members from the Sibu branch. Datin Sri Hajah Zuraini binti Abdul Jabbar, wife of the accompanying minister, was also in attendance.
The welcome ceremony began with a traditional silat performance, showcasing local martial arts heritage. This was followed by a formal session that included the singing of the national anthem, Negaraku, and the state song, Ibu Pertiwiku.
A welcome dance added to the festive atmosphere, while a prayer recitation was led by resident Muhammad Luqman Haqid. The event commenced with a video presentation highlighting the work of PERYATIM Sarawak and the specific operations of the Sibu complex.
Dato Haji Mohamad Yusnar bin Haji Matalie, a board member and chairman of the complex, delivered a welcoming speech. He expressed deep gratitude for the Toh Puan’s willingness to visit and interact with the residents. He noted that the children were visibly excited by her presence and that the visit would create lasting memories for everyone at the facility.
Adding a personal touch to the proceedings, alumni representative Williyan Ricky Abdullah shared his experiences. Currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Geoinformatics Science at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Skudai, Johor, he thanked the Toh Puan for her support. He described the visit as a significant honour for all residents, illustrating the positive outcomes possible through the welfare system.
During the event, the Toh Puan presented donation envelopes to 62 children residing at the complex. This gesture symbolised her concern for their well-being and provided tangible support for their needs. The act was received with appreciation by the young residents and staff alike.
The engagement continued with interactive activities designed to foster connection. The Toh Puan participated in a cooking demonstration, preparing spicy bubur pedas, a local favourite. She also joined the residents in producing woven handicrafts, engaging in the creative process alongside them.
The session concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony, marking both the Sarawak Day celebration and the birthdays of several staff members and children.
Later, the Toh Puan spent time socialising with the residents over afternoon tea. The relaxed setting was enlivened by performances from the J14 Live Band and cultural dances performed by the children themselves. This informal interaction allowed for meaningful conversations and shared moments of joy.
Before departing, she posed for photographs with the children and staff, capturing the memorable occasion. These images serve as mementos of the day’s events and the bond formed during the visit.
This visit underscores the Toh Puan’s ongoing commitment to supporting orphaned and vulnerable children. By engaging directly with the community, she aims to strengthen the welfare network and foster a spirit of love and togetherness.
Her presence highlighted the importance of compassion and collective responsibility in ensuring a bright future for the state’s younger generation.
