SERIAN: The Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS), in collaboration with the village security and development committee (JKKK) of Kampung Hulu, hosted the Ziarah UKAS Semarak Ramadan 2023 programme here last night (March 31).
Present to preside over the ceremony was Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus. It was also attended by several dignitaries, including UKAS special administrative officer Datuk Takun Sunggah and a representative for Serian Resident Mahyudin Hafiz Mohamad.
The programme, which took place at Surau Darul Taqwa in Kampung Hulu, started early in the morning with a communal activity to prepare bubur lambuk, and it continued throughout the day.
In light of this, John stressed the importance of maintaining unity among the locals, especially the various ethnic groups in the Bukit Semuja constituency.
“Although there are various ethnic groups in the Bukit Semuja constituency, we are united. This is something we want to maintain,” he said when officiating at the event.
During the event, 30 selected asnaf (needy people) from Kampung Hulu, Kampung Hilir, Kampung Munggu Limo, Kampung Bunga Siantan, and Kampung Bunga Raya received donations from UKAS.
The JKKK of Kampung Hulu also contributed to help Maznah Abdullah Liam Mail, a recent fire victim, whose home was destroyed by fire on March 23 at 4.54am.
Meanwhile, in his speech, Takun said the programme includes the participation of local leaders and government agencies and seeks to engage the local community.
“This programme is a platform to approach the community; hence, it needs the support of the local assemblymen and government agencies.
“It is also hoped that this programme can foster a spirit of harmony among leaders and the people,” he said.
At the event, John announced a proposal to construct a drainage system in Kampung Hulu worth RM500,000.
“I hope we can put it into action this year. We will announce (development projects) for other villages from time to time,” he said.
The programme was well-received by the local community, where the occasion was characterised by a strong sense of togetherness and unity.
It also provided much-needed assistance to the asnaf and the fire victims, emphasising the importance of community support during the holy month of Ramadan.
Representatives from various government agencies and departments, as well as nearby village chiefs, were also present during the event.
To conclude the programme, attendees enjoyed breaking their fast together.
