GEDONG: Awareness among the Muslim community on the importance of early financial planning for ‘ibadah korban’ (animal sacrificial rites) is steadily increasing, enabling it to be carried out in a more organised and systematic manner.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said more Muslims are now coming forward to perform the sacrificial rite through voluntary monthly savings initiatives.

According to him, the growing trend not only reflects a heightened awareness among Muslims in fulfilling their religious obligations, but also signals improving and more stable economic conditions among the community.

“It reflects that our economy is growing and the community has the best practice to sacrifice animals.

“Examples include the administrative staff of the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) who voluntarily make early savings every month as an allocation to buy animals,” he said.

He said this when met by reporters after officiating the Gedong Constituency Cattle and Sacrificial Meat Handover Ceremony held at the Al-Kawthar Mosque, here on Thursday.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari described the practice as a form of continuous waqf and sacrifice for the benefit of the community.

He noted that the spirit of sacrifice fostered through year-round savings should serve as an example, as it demonstrates the commitment of Muslims in carrying out religious obligations while assisting those in need.

“The Muslim community is becoming more aware of the importance of preparing early by saving funds to purchase sacrificial animals when the time comes,” he added.

Around 150 Muslims in the Gedong constituency benefited from the sacrificial meat distribution involving 26 cattle.

Of the total, the Sarawak Premier contributed 19 cattle, while Batang Sadong Member of Parliament Rodiyah Sapiee donated six cattle and Agrobank Sarawak contributed one for the programme.

Also present were Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, special representative of Gedong Assemblyman Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais, Rodiyah, Sarawak Mufti Datu Khalidi Ibrahim, Samarahan Division Resident Mohamad Irwan Bahari Bujang and Gedong District Officer Jamain Wahab. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Jonnie Kiew
Photo: Zulfadli
Translator: Nerissa Sia