55 asnaf receive financial aid during UiTM Sarawak Iftar Perdana event

KOTA SAMARAHAN (March 22): A total of 55 ‘asnaf’ (those eligible to receive tithes) during the Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Iftar Perdana event here on Friday.

The contributions were presented by Utility and Telecommunications Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, representing Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Speaking at the event, UiTM Sarawak rector Prof Dr Firdaus Abdullah said the recipients comprised underprivileged students, single mothers, UiTM Sarawak staff and villagers from Kampung Plaie, who were new Muslim converts.

He added the financial aid was donated from UiTM Sarawak’s Zakat and Wakaf Unit for the contribution of 20 asnaf students; Tabung Sedekah for 20 asnaf staff and 10 from Kampung Plaie; and Persatuan Wanita Universiti Teknologi Mara for five single mothers.

“This event serves to celebrate UiTM Sarawak’s asnaf students and staff, as well as the community, in easing their burdens as they observe Ramadan and prepare to celebrate the month of Syawal.

“At the same time, this event hopes to strengthen relationships between the university, the state government’s leadership as well as local community. We hope these contributions can ease the recipients’ burdens,” he said.

A symbolic cheque handover ceremony also took place during the event, which saw contributions from various organisations to UiTM Sarawak’s welfare funds.

The event witnessed Maybank Islamic Berhad, through its Sarawak regional director Abang Jamili Abang Julai, donate RM115,105 to UiTM Sarawak’s Zakat Fund.

Rafulin Holdings Sdn Bhd, represented by its Sarawak branch manager Ivy Molly Luhat on behalf of managing director Dato’ Mohamed Raffe Chekku, contributed RM75,450 to the university’s Zakat Fund.

Over 400 guests comprising students, staff members and dignitaries were present at the event.

Also present was UiTM pro-chancellor Datuk Abdul Wahab Aziz.