Sharing of festive cheer: Abang Johari (right) chatting with Fatimah (second from left) at the handover of Raya goodies in Kuching. — ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/ The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak plans to increase the allocation for Hari Raya Aidilfitri goodies distributed to security and enforcement agencies next year, says Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said this would allow for the packing of more food items into the goodie boxes for personnel on duty during the festive season.
“Every year we distribute Raya goodies to spread festive joy to those who are on duty and celebrating away from their families.
“My wife has suggested that next year, besides cakes and snacks, we can include food like instant noodles so that those on duty can have something more filling,” he told reporters after handing over the Raya goodies at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here on Wednesday.
Abang Johari said the suggestion had been welcomed by state Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, whose ministry is in charge of distributing the Raya goodies.
“So we will increase the allocation for next year,” he added.
In his speech earlier, Abang Johari thanked the enforcement and uniformed agencies for carrying out their duties with dedication over the years.
He said they had played a pivotal role in providing assistance during the Covid-19 pandemic as well as during floods and other emergencies.
Fatimah said the distribution of Raya goodies was a signature programme of the ministry to express care and appreciation for the sacrifices of security and enforcement personnel.
“This is the 34th year we have been distributing the goodies since the programme was introduced in 1990,” she said.
This year, the ministry spent RM474,255 to prepare 12,000 goodie boxes for distribution to 11 agencies.
The boxes contain spiced beef floss, fruitcake, nuts, premix coffee, tea and Raya greeting cards.
The recipient agencies comprise the Armed Forces, police, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, Fire and Rescue Department, Prisons Department, Immigration Department, Customs Department, Road Transport Department, Civil Defence Force, People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela) and Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit.
