By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, Dec 18: Ibraco Berhad spread festive cheer by delivering essential supplies and Christmas treats to children during the 11th edition of Charity Without Borders, held from Dec 12 to 15, 2024, in the remote village of Long Tikan, Ulu Baram.
Organised by Kelab Cabaran Pacuan 4 Roda Bintulu and Hope Place Kuching, this heartwarming initiative provided much-needed aid to the Penan communities in Long Tikan, Long Betao, and Long Bee, as well as villagers from Long Jekitan.
According to a media release today, the event was flagged off on Dec 12 by Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau, Hope Place vice president Dr Francis Chia, event organising chairman Lau Sie King, and the club’s vice president, Mancha.
As the main sponsor of food aid, Ibraco contributed 165 boxes of essential supplies and 250 Christmas treats for the children, bringing joy to villages faraway from typical holiday celebrations.
Three representatives from Ibraco joined the event, underscoring the company’s commitment to giving back to those in need.
Ibraco Berhad managing director Datuk Chew Chiaw Han emphasised the importance of community-focused efforts.
“Ibraco is proud and most glad to be part of this humbling initiative by Hope Place. We truly understand that charity starts at home, where needs are most urgent. Our goal is to help nurture those in need, fostering a better quality of life for these communities and their future generations,” he said.
The event also featured free healthcare services led by a 22-person medical team, including Sarawak Health Department deputy director Dr Azlee Ayub. The team provided medical aid to over 200 villagers, including 104 children and included specialists like an ophtalmologist, orthopaedic specialist, and a dentist from the Malaysian Dental Association Eastern Zone, who addressed critical dental needs.
Additionally, the medical team collected essential health data for ongoing support initiatives. Free haircuts were also provided, courtesy of Bintulu’s H2O Hairdressing.
Over 100 children participated in engaging activities, including games and puzzles, and received special Christmas gifts. These were organised by Hope Place regular volunteer Denise Koo. The children were further delighted by a custom-designed colouring book by local artist Nia Latif and gifts donated by Sam Fah Enterprise and donors from Kuching.
The event was made possible by generous sponsors, including the Sarawak Tourism Board, which allocated RM40,000, Sarawak Energy Berhad, which donated 130 life jackets, and Hoe Guan Scaffolding & Trading Sdn Bhd, which contributed 15 fire extinguishers.
Volunteers from Kuching, Sibu, Belaga, Bintulu, Miri, Batu Niah, Brunei, Penang, and the Philippines braved the challenging journey from Miri to Long Tikan to make the event a success.
Ibraco’s support highlights the company’s dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of the less fortunate. The initiative demonstrates the power of collective action and community-focused efforts.
Looking ahead, the organisers are already planning future outreach initiatives to continue supporting vulnerable communities in remote areas.
“Ibraco is committed to improving lives where it matters most, and this event truly embodies the spirit of giving and solidarity,” Chew added. —DayakDaily
