KUALA LUMPUR: A total of RM2,086,800 has been raised from 50 companies for this year’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri contribution initiative for Armed Forces personnel.
Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the amount comprises RM1,832,800 in cash and RM254,000 worth of goods, which will be distributed to personnel on duty during the festive season.
“Although there is a slight decrease compared with last year, I am grateful that this programme continues to receive support from various parties who are concerned about the welfare of the Armed Forces,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the Hari Raya Aidilfitri 1447H/2026M Contribution Presentation Ceremony at the Wisma Pertahanan Auditorium here on Tuesday (March 10).
The contributions will enable the Armed Forces to prepare about 16,000 Hari Raya Aidilfitri goodie bags for personnel on duty nationwide, as well as those serving on overseas missions.
Adly said the annual initiative is a gesture of appreciation for Armed Forces personnel who continue to safeguard the country’s security while many others celebrate Aidilfitri with their families.
“This contribution is a symbol of appreciation and recognition, a manifestation of gratitude from the people, the corporate sector and the government,” he said.
“It sends a message that the sacrifices of Armed Forces personnel are always valued,” he added.
Among the contributors were Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera, System Consultancy Services Sdn Bhd, Koperasi Angkatan Tentera Malaysia Bhd, Affin Bank Bhd, Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd, Platinum Victory Development Sdn Bhd and Peluang Kristal (M) Sdn Bhd.
The donated items were collected beginning in February and packed in stages by Armed Forces personnel.
The final 400 goodie bags were prepared by members of the Armed Forces Family Welfare Body (Bakat) as a show of support for personnel spending Aidilfitri away from their families.
The ceremony also featured the launch of the Hari Raya goodie bags, followed by a symbolic handover to Armed Forces Chief Lieutenant-General Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman and representatives of the three service branches.
Also present were Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, senior Armed Forces and Defence Ministry officers, as well as Bakat members.
