Sarawak Muslims urged to continue supporting mosque-based programmes
Sharifah Hasidah (fifth right) hands over the official festival flag to LAKMNS honorary secretary Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Husain in a symbolic gesture to mark the closing ceremony. – Photos by Jude Toyat
KUCHING: Muslims, particularly in Sarawak, are urged to continue giving active support to programmes organised by mosques in efforts to strengthen the role of the institution as a hub of community empowerment.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Law, State-Federal Relations and MA63) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali made the call when officiating the closing ceremony of the Festival Maal Hijrah 1447H/2025M at Masjid Jamek Negeri Sarawak here today.
'I urge all Muslims, especially in Sarawak, to continue supporting mosque-organised programmes.
'Let us be part of the movement to enliven the House of Allah, making the mosque a point of reference for the community and a centre for welfare and dakwah (Islamic propagation),' she said in her speech.
The closing ceremony marked the conclusion of the 10-day festival, organised by Lembaga Amanah Kebajikan Masjid Negeri Sarawak (LAKMNS), which began on June 20.
The ceremony was officiated with the symbolic lowering of the official festival flag.
Representing the Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof, who was away on official duty in Russia, Sharifah Hasidah conveyed his congratulations and appreciation to LAKMNS for the successful organisation of the festival.
'This festival not only highlights the role of mosques but also strengthens bonds among people from various walks of life through programmes blending information and entertainment,' she added.
According to her, the festival is clear proof that LAKMNS is at the forefront in managing and modernising mosque institutions through dynamic and innovative approaches that are aligned with the evolving needs of the ummah.
'LAKMNS' continuous efforts to uplift the welfare of the ummah through various mosque and community development initiatives are commendable.
'This reflects a holistic approach encompassing spiritual, social, educational and welfare aspects, making the mosque a true institution for empowerment,' she said.
Sharifah Hasidah (fourth left) presents the challenge trophy, accompanying cup, and RM5,000 cash prize to a representative of Masjid Nurul Khair, Kampung Samariang Batu, which emerged as the overall champion of the Mosque/Surau Competition held in conjunction with the Festival Maal Hijrah 1447H/2025M.
Sharifah Hasidah said she was also informed that LAKMNS will undertake the construction of a new tower for Masjid Jamek Negeri Sarawak, which will be equipped with solar energy technology.
'This is a forward-looking step, not only in terms of modern Islamic architecture but also in supporting environmental sustainability and green energy initiatives,' she said, describing the initiative as positioning the mosque as a sustainable development agent.
She said such efforts reflect the visionary leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is also chairman of LAKMNS and continues to advocate for development rooted in universal Islamic values.
She also reminded the audience of the importance of mosques beyond a place of worship.
'As we welcome the new Hijrah year, it is timely for us to reinforce the mosque's role not only as a place of prayer but also as a centre for knowledge, moral development, and unity among the ummah across all backgrounds,' she said.
Citing the Prophet Muhammad SAW's actions upon arriving in Madinah, she noted that building a mosque was among his first steps, signifying the mosque's centrality in early Islamic civilisation.
'The mosque is the heart of ummah development, serving as a spiritual centre, a platform for the dissemination of knowledge, and a hub for strengthening brotherhood,' she said.
She also expressed hope for LAKMNS to continue with its quality programmes that help shape the Muslim identity and strengthen the mosque's daily role.
Among the highlights of the closing ceremony were prize presentations for winners of mosque/surau competitions and lucky draw giveaways for visitors. community mosques Muslims Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Barnama
2 hours ago
- Barnama
JTKSM Upgrades Facilities At SK Seri Macap Under MADANI Adopted School Initiative
KLUANG, June 30 (Bernama) -- The Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia (JTKSM) is committed to supporting the government's efforts to enhance national education and help nurture a quality future generation. Its director-general, Kamal Pardi, said that, through the MADANI Adopted School (Sekolah Angkat MADANI or SAM) initiative, a comprehensive, collaborative, and high-impact approach is being implemented to upgrade facilities at the department's adopted school, Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Seri Macap, here, to create a more comfortable and conducive learning environment. He said SK Seri Macap was selected as JTKSM's adopted school due to its status as a rural school, with the aim of upgrading its facilities and infrastructure to be on par with urban schools. 'An allocation of RM100,000 has been approved for SK Seri Macap. 'This initiative reflects our commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive education ecosystem. At the same time, JTKSM will play its part in contributing to the development of the nation's human capital,' he told reporters after launching the JTKSM MADANI Adopted School 2025 at SK Seri Macap, here, today. Also present were Kluang district education officer Ayob Ibrahim and SK Seri Macap headmaster Sharudin Md Taib. Meanwhile, Kamal said that the success of the initiative at the school was made possible through collaboration with Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) and the school's Parent-Teacher Association. 'Five main components are being prioritised under the programme. These are improvements to physical facilities and infrastructure; academic programmes and student guidance; teacher training and professional development; financial aid for basic needs; and the development of students' character and soft skills. He added that, among the physical upgrades at SK Seri Macap are the construction of an open stage, a Zaaba pedestrian path, roof and staircase, meeting rooms, air-conditioning installations and smart television, as well as renovations to the library and screening room.
The Sun
7 hours ago
- The Sun
Thousands join nationwide plogging initiative
KUALA LUMPUR: In a powerful display of environmental consciousness, thousands of Malaysians from all walks of life came together yesterday for a nationwide plogging event, held in celebration of Tzu Chi Malaysia's 30th anniversary of environmental advocacy. The event, held under the banner of the 'Go Green, Go Plogging' campaign, combined exercise with environmental care. Plogging refers to jogging while picking up litter, turning an ordinary workout into a community activity. Spanning more than 50 locations across the Klang Valley, Pahang, Sabah and Sarawak, the campaign marked the largest plogging initiative ever organised by Tzu Chi Malaysia. Nationwide, more than 8,000 participants took part, collecting rubbish while walking or jogging to raise awareness about environmental sustainability and civic responsibility. The main venue at the Tzu Chi Jing Si Hall in Kepong saw about 1,000 participants, including representatives from GLCs, private corporations, NGOs and media organisations. Berjaya Corporation founder and Tzu Chi commissioner Tan Sri Vincent Tan, who took part in the clean-up, commended the initiative and called for more regular community involvement. 'This is a very good event and I think it should be done more often, ideally once a week in different parts of the city. 'It shouldn't be organised by Tzu Chi alone. Every group, religious, civic or corporate, should get involved. 'If 52 organisations each hosted one clean-up a year, we would have a cleaner Kuala Lumpur every week,' he said after the event. Tan also voiced concern over the large number of cigarette butts collected. 'We picked up a lot of cigarette butts today. Perhaps it's time for cigarette companies to provide proper disposal containers, boxes with a section to stub out and store the butts that can be placed in public areas. 'Everyone needs to take responsibility, not just the companies but individuals as well. Smokers should do their part to dispose of their cigarette butts properly instead of leaving them scattered everywhere,' he said. Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur and Selangor deputy CEO Puan Sri Tong Siew Bee thanked all participants and supporting organisations, underscoring the significance of the movement. 'This marks three decades of Tzu Chi's environmental journey in Malaysia. For 30 years, we have worked with local communities to protect Earth through education, advocacy and action. 'At Tzu Chi, we believe that every small action creates a ripple of goodness. Picking up just one piece of litter may seem insignificant, but imagine the collective impact if we all did it consistently, not just today but as a way of life,' she said. She also quoted Tzu Chi founder Dharma Master Cheng Yen: 'The Earth is like our mother, she carries and nurtures all beings. We should cherish her with a grateful heart.' Also present were BCorp joint CEO Vivienne Cheng Chi Fan, Top Glove chairman Tan Sri Lim Wee Chai, Bukit Lanjan assemblywoman Pua Pei Ling, Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur and Selangor deputy CEO Josephine Tien and Southern Score managing director Tan Sri Gan Yu Chai. Among the corporate supporters were Berjaya Group, Public Bank, Top Glove, Sunway Group, Nirvana, Radium Development Berhad, Southern Score Builders Berhad and Techsaltants. Tzu Chi Malaysia currently operates 154 recycling centres and 776 community-based recycling points nationwide, reflecting a deep rooted commitment to sustainability at the grassroots level.
The Sun
8 hours ago
- The Sun
8,000 join Tzu Chi's record plogging drive for environment
KUALA LUMPUR: In a powerful display of environmental consciousness, thousands of Malaysians from all walks of life came together yesterday for a nationwide plogging event, held in celebration of Tzu Chi Malaysia's 30th anniversary of environmental advocacy. The event, held under the banner of the 'Go Green, Go Plogging' campaign, combined exercise with environmental care. Plogging refers to jogging while picking up litter, turning an ordinary workout into a community activity. Spanning more than 50 locations across the Klang Valley, Pahang, Sabah and Sarawak, the campaign marked the largest plogging initiative ever organised by Tzu Chi Malaysia. Nationwide, more than 8,000 participants took part, collecting rubbish while walking or jogging to raise awareness about environmental sustainability and civic responsibility. The main venue at the Tzu Chi Jing Si Hall in Kepong saw about 1,000 participants, including representatives from GLCs, private corporations, NGOs and media organisations. Berjaya Corporation founder and Tzu Chi commissioner Tan Sri Vincent Tan, who took part in the clean-up, commended the initiative and called for more regular community involvement. 'This is a very good event and I think it should be done more often, ideally once a week in different parts of the city. 'It shouldn't be organised by Tzu Chi alone. Every group, religious, civic or corporate, should get involved. 'If 52 organisations each hosted one clean-up a year, we would have a cleaner Kuala Lumpur every week,' he said after the event. Tan also voiced concern over the large number of cigarette butts collected. 'We picked up a lot of cigarette butts today. Perhaps it's time for cigarette companies to provide proper disposal containers, boxes with a section to stub out and store the butts that can be placed in public areas. 'Everyone needs to take responsibility, not just the companies but individuals as well. Smokers should do their part to dispose of their cigarette butts properly instead of leaving them scattered everywhere,' he said. Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur and Selangor deputy CEO Puan Sri Tong Siew Bee thanked all participants and supporting organisations, underscoring the significance of the movement. 'This marks three decades of Tzu Chi's environmental journey in Malaysia. For 30 years, we have worked with local communities to protect Earth through education, advocacy and action. 'At Tzu Chi, we believe that every small action creates a ripple of goodness. Picking up just one piece of litter may seem insignificant, but imagine the collective impact if we all did it consistently, not just today but as a way of life,' she said. She also quoted Tzu Chi founder Dharma Master Cheng Yen: 'The Earth is like our mother, she carries and nurtures all beings. We should cherish her with a grateful heart.' Also present were BCorp joint CEO Vivienne Cheng Chi Fan, Top Glove chairman Tan Sri Lim Wee Chai, Bukit Lanjan assemblywoman Pua Pei Ling, Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur and Selangor deputy CEO Josephine Tien and Southern Score managing director Tan Sri Gan Yu Chai. Among the corporate supporters were Berjaya Group, Public Bank, Top Glove, Sunway Group, Nirvana, Radium Development Berhad, Southern Score Builders Berhad and Techsaltants. Tzu Chi Malaysia currently operates 154 recycling centres and 776 community-based recycling points nationwide, reflecting a deep rooted commitment to sustainability at the grassroots level.
