KUCHING, May 23: A total of 8,000 boxes of ‘kuih raya’ were distributed to 10 enforcement agencies in the state.
The distribution of festive goodies to the various enforcement agencies was made in recognition of their sacrifices in upholding peace in the state, particularly during festivities such as Gawai Dayak and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg distributed the festive goodies to the Malaysian Armed Forces (2,800), Royal Malaysia Police (1,800), State Fire and Rescue Department (900), State Prisons’ Department (300), Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (900), State Immigration Department (300), Royal Malaysian Customs Department Sarawak (300), State Road Transport Department (200), Malaysia Civil Defence Department Sarawak (250) and the People’s Volunteer Corps Sarawak (250) at the old State Assembly building this morning.
“During festive seasons, these enforcement personnel are unable to celebrate with the family, due to time constraints and their duties to protect the state. It is because of them that we are able us to go about our daily lives peacefully and safely,” Abang Johari said.
The event is an annual programme by the state government since 1990 when it was organised by Sarawak Women’s Bureau, and now under the Ministry of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development.
Its minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the festive goodies were prepared by a few non-governmental organisations (NGOs) through ‘gotong royong’.
“This is a symbol of our appreciation from the state government as well as the people of Sarawak. Welfare is the responsibility of all, not just the ministry but others as well. We hope we can improve on our contribution after this,” she said. — DayakDaily
