BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The WISE Programme (WARGAMAS Economic Inspiration), aiming to empower senior citizens economically through participation in entrepreneurial activities, sales initiatives and competitions with the potential to generate supplementary income, was launched at the lobby of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex on Tuesday (Jan 13).
Organised by the WARGAMAS Association, the two-day programme began with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar, Surah Al-Fatihah and Selawat Tafrijiyyah.
This was followed by the Monthly Tamu sales, as well as competition and judging sessions.
The launch was officiated by the Assistant Managing Director (Welfare Services and Social Development) Iswandy Ahmad as the personal representative of Permanent Secretary (Planning, Land Use and Environment) at the Ministry of Development Dr Nor Imtihan Abdul Razak, who is also a member of the Yayasan Board of Managing Directors.
President of the WARGAMAS Association Haji Abu Bakar bin Haji Mohd Don said the WISE Programme forms part of the association’s ongoing efforts to provide a platform for senior citizens to remain active and self-reliant through participation in economic activities, while supporting their well-being and reinforcing their role in community development.
Following the launch, the guest of honour was taken on a tour of the sales and activity booths.
The programme was enlivened by the WISE Programme Competition, open to members of the WARGAMAS Association, Yayasan and Bank Usahawan. The competition features four categories: cooking of local fish soup, live flower arrangement, handicrafts and creative works, and ketupat weaving, with participation limited to four contestants per category.
Organisers hoped the programme will not only uncover the talents and creativity of senior citizens, but also serve as a sustainable platform to support their economic well-being and strengthen their active role in society. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
