SIBU: The annual ‘Sungkei Perdana’ mass breaking of fast event at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1 here has continued to bolster racial unity and religious harmony among the diverse local communities.
Despite the damp conditions at Dataran Tun Tuanku Haji Bujang, Sibu residents flocked to the town’s iconic event, which has been a staple since its inception in 2017.
By 6pm yesterday (Mar 23), the crowd had grown to encompass the entire area, with an estimated 20,000 individuals from various backgrounds attending the programme.
The inclusive iftar setting undoubtedly offers a fresh experience for the public, particularly the non-Muslim community.
New Sarawak Tribune managed to gather feedback from attendees on their impressions of the programme and their overall experience.
Chairman of the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Committee Sibu, Manogaran Krishnasamy
“This is the fourth year my family and I have participated in the iftar program here. I am pleased to see the diversity of religions and races participating in this program, and everyone is welcome to join. Last year, the program brought together about 10,000 people, and this time, it is expected that more than 15,000 people will gather at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Fasa here. I hope the number of participants will continue to increase for the coming years,” he said.
Chairman of the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Sibu branch, Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee
“We are truly inspired and proud of the Sibu Muslim community for their initiative and willingness to approach and build bridges between Muslims and non-Muslims by inviting non-Muslim friends to break fast together in this noble month. In a world often divided by misunderstandings and misconceptions, this iftar dinner event truly becomes a source of hope and unity. This not only reflects the values of compassion, forgiveness, and hope inherent in Ramadan but also strengthens the structure of diverse communities,” he said.
Sibu Division Chinese Community Leaders Association Chairman, Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming
“We know in Sarawak all people from different races respect each other and celebrate every festival together. This programme is something very wonderful, and I hope this kind of tradition will continue,” he said.
Civil servant, Tinggal Mohamad
“I come from Kuching, and this is my first experience in an iftar program like this because I have never attended such a program in Kuching before. Previously, I only saw it on television, and today, I came here with five friends. For me, such a program is excellent because it brings back my childhood memories,” he said.
