KUCHING: Fifty Hindus have received financial aid ahead of the upcoming Deepavali celebration.
The contribution, made possible by Petronas Sarawak in collaboration with the Kuching Divisional Social Welfare Office, involved a cash grant of RM100 along with hampers valued at RM250.
Speaking at the Sejambak Kasih Deepavali 2023 event and Petronas: Empowering Lives Programme held at Waterfront Hotel on Friday night (Nov 3), Women, Childhood, and Community Well-being Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah stressed that the initiative aligns with the Sarawak government’s commitment to inclusivity.
“That is not just a statement; we are actively working with various entities, including the Social Welfare Department (JKM) and Sarawak Women and Family Department (JWKS) to enhance inclusivity in the state.
“This is to ensure that no ethnic groups in our communities feel they are being marginalised, we want to make sure that they are taken care of under the government,” she said.
Additionally, Fatimah also called on corporate entities, non-governmental organisations, and individuals to contribute to those in need, not only during festive seasons but in any emergency situations.
“With this, we also hope for leaders of the Indian community to assist the department by being vigilant and reporting any issues or needs, referring such cases for consideration of assistance,” she added.
The Sejambak Kasih Deepavali 2023 event, aimed to alleviate financial burdens ahead of Deepavali and provide aid to less privileged families.
As part of the collaborative efforts, the Sarawak Department of Social Welfare conducted home visits to two households on Thursday (Nov 2).
These visits, in partnership with Petronas Sarawak, involved cordial exchanges and the provision of Deepavali contributions.
Among those present were Deputy Minister Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam and permanent secretary Noriah Ahmad; Petronas Sarawak general manager Zulaihi Mohd Mantali and senior manager Norazibah Md Rabu; Yayasan Sarawak Head of Planning and Services Khairunnisa Ghazali; Sarawak Social Welfare Department director Adana Jed; and Kuching Resident Norleha Shariff.
