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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 17: The Kuching Festival Fair (KFF) 2023 successfully raised a sum of RM48,927.80 through contributions from stall operators, associations, and private sectors, benefiting 18 charitable organisations.
Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian expressed his deep satisfaction, remarking that the festival transcends its role as a mere economic event, instead embodying the very essence of Kuching city by fostering unity and a spirit of generosity.
“Kuching City Day is always about what else we can do for our city. I am very proud that Kuchingites are coming together, be it rain or shine, to support and uplift one another.
“This reflect the inclusivity that defines Kuching’s identity which made us proud. This unity is the heart and soul of Kuching, a testament to our distinctive character. The accomplishments we witness are the result of collective efforts, an embodiment of the spirit that binds us together in prosperity,” he said when officiating the KFF Charity Night 2023 at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Theatre tonight.
He went on to criticise those who offer criticism year after year without making any positive contributions and describing such actions as insincere and politically motivated.
Noting that the Charity Night is the highlight of the festival, Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, pointed out that irrespective of a city’s affluence, there will always be those in need.
“These generous contributions from store operators and sponsors will help make a difference to lives and put smile on faces. Hopefully, as those who benefitted overcome their challenges, they too will extend support to others,” he said.
He added that these are the values and legacy that this festival aims to perpetuate for future generations.
MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng expressed the council’s dedication to contributing to the well-being of charitable organisations which are already struggling to raise funds but still continue to work tirelessly to serve the community.
“The highest single contribution was RM16,888. We honour their pledge to give back some of their profits from this festival to the needy. In return, we assure them a best spot at next year’s festival, so that they can continue to donate even more,” he explained.
With acknowledgment of the challenges faced throughout the year, Wee extended his gratitude to the donors for their generous support, emphasising the positive impact their donations will have on noble causes.
Charity Night 2023 organising committee chairman councillor Chai Ju Loon highlighted that the heartening success of the fundraising efforts showed that Kuchingites are willing and ready to help whereever and whenever the need arises.
The recipients of the donation are Taiwan Buddist Tzu Chi Foundation Malaysia (Kuching), Sarawak Society for the Blind, Sarawak Society for the Deaf, Sarawak Breast Cancer Support Group, Sarawak Cheshire Home, Kuching Autistic Association, The Salvation Army, Kuching Life Care Society, The Society for Kuching Urban Poor, Wishesland, The Carnation Club of Kuching and Samarahan, Society for Critically Sick Children, Pertubuhan PDK Sentuhan Kasih Kuching, Pibakat, Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society, Sarawak Hung Nam Siang T’ng, Kuching Palliative Association and Sarawak Heart Foundation.
The event also witnessed the presentation of certificates and prizes for Best Decorated Stall 2023, School and winners of Garden and Landscape Competition 2023 for primary and secondary schools.
Dr Sim’s wife Datin Sri Enn Ong and Deputy Minister of Public Health and Housing Datu Dr Penguang Manggil were present. — DayakDaily
