By Karen Bong
KUCHING, April 12: Sarawak’s spirit of racial and religious harmony was on full display as thousands from all walks of life gathered today for the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House hosted by Cahya Mata Sarawak Berhad (Cahya Mata) at Raia Hotel & Convention Centre.
Dressed in their festive best, many attendees brought along their families to join in the joyous celebration, which marked the end of Ramadan and the arrival of Syawal.
The event brought together Cahya Mata’s Board of Directors, clients, partners, vendors, suppliers, employees, and their families in a meaningful show of togetherness.
Among those welcoming guests were Cahya Mata chairman General Dato’ Seri DiRaja Tan Sri Dr Mohd Zahidi Zainuddin (retired), group managing director Dato Sri Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Abdul Taib, members of the Board, heads of Strategic Business Units, and senior management.
Sulaiman emphasised that the Open House served as Cahya Mata’s way of honouring the meaningful connections it shares with its employees, business partners, and the wider community—all of whom have played a vital role in the company’s growth and success.
“Aidilfitri is a time to reflect on faith and gratitude, to forgive, and to renew the bonds of family and friendship. As one of Sarawak’s most recognisable homegrown brands, our success has always been rooted in the strong relationships we’ve built,” he acknowledged in a media release.
Group Sustainability Committee chairman and Independent Non-Executive director Dato’ Maznah Abdul Jalil highlighted how the event upholds Malaysia’s cherished tradition of open houses during festive seasons.
“Cahya Mata is proud to play a role in fostering unity and social cohesion by celebrating Aidilfitri in a way that brings together people of all races and faiths.
“As a responsible corporate citizen, our commitment to giving back extends beyond festive periods—throughout the year we support various initiatives such as blood donation drives, tree planting efforts, and upgrading infrastructure at community centres and places of worship,” she said.
This year, Cahya Mata also hosted its inaugural buka puasa event with Lembaga Kebajikan Anak-Anak Yatim Sarawak (PERYATIM) Kuching and Toh Puan Hajah Norkiah Kuching Orphanage (RKKTPHNK), bringing together over 250 children, caregivers, staff, and employees.
Beyond its role as a key driver of Sarawak’s economic development—through the supply of vital construction materials and the development of critical infrastructure—Cahya Mata continues to prioritise impactful corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes that support local communities and underserved groups.
From its origins as a cement manufacturer, Cahya Mata has grown into a multinational conglomerate with operations in 10 countries. Its core businesses span cement, oil tools, road maintenance, property development, construction materials and trading, phosphates, and environmental technology, alongside strategic investments in financial services and telecommunications infrastructure. — DayakDaily
