Waqf Culture In Sarawak Remains Strong, Positive Sign For Continuity Of Religious Institutions
KUCHING: The waqf culture in the state remains strong, reflecting a positive sign for the continuity of religious institutions.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said that the construction of the Kampung Taman Indah Waqf Surau is the result of contributions from residents and donors, thus symbolising the strength of the waqf culture among the Muslim community in the area.
“This is an excellent example of the community's spirit and soul, not only in the construction of houses of worship but also in the execution of the sacrificial ritual (korban) involving the participation of many parties,” he said.
He said this when met by reporters after attending the Aidiladha Celebration at the Kampung Taman Indah Waqf Surau here on Wednesday.
It is understood that a total of 35 cattle were successfully slaughtered at the surau, making it among the highest numbers ever carried out at the surau level.
Touching on a related matter, Datuk Abdullah emphasised the uniqueness of the Aidiladha celebration in Sarawak, which also involves the participation of the non-Muslim community, including assisting in gotong-royong activities.
“This demonstrates a very strong spirit of tolerance and inter-religious unity, which deserves to be continued,” he added.
Commenting further, he said that the korban program not only holds religious value but also functions as a medium of welfare, particularly in assisting the asnaf and those affected by current economic pressures.
In line with this, he suggested that contribution collection initiatives through mosques and suraus be expanded throughout the year to provide basic necessity assistance, such as rice and kitchen goods, to the needy.
“This spirit of donating should not be limited to Aidiladha alone, but can be made into a periodic practice to ensure that the welfare of the community is always preserved,” he stated.
The program also witnessed the distribution of sacrificial meat to the asnaf group and local residents, further strengthening the relationship between the community and leaders. — UKASnews
