KUCHING: Charity events in Sarawak reflect the community’s concern for the less fortunate in the state.
In stating this, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian said this spirit of charity is evident in the numerous fundraising activities such as the charity runs held almost every weekend.
He said other than charity runs, fundraising sales and performances also receive strong support and participation from the people of Sarawak.
“I am extremely proud of such efforts because every Saturday and Sunday in Kuching, each charity run attracts at least 1,000 participants.
“These individuals are doing great work regardless of age. They all come together to help others in need,” he said during the Charity Food Fair to support the Society for Critically Sick Children (SOS Kids) 2024 held at Aeroville Mall on Sunday (June 30).
Dr Sim added that these charity events also play a vital role in educating the younger generation, which is crucial for nation-building.
“We gather at events like this not just to enjoy the festivities, but with the goal of raising funds to support children in need, specifically for SOS Kids.
“Therefore, I would like to congratulate the organisers and everyone involved, including the booths participating in this event, for helping to make a difference for these children,” he said.
The charity fair aims to raise funds for SOS Kids Kuching and to spread public awareness about the Society, particularly regarding several critical childhood conditions such as birth defects involving the lungs, intestines, and heart.
These severe illnesses require substantial financial support for the children and their families.
The Sunday event featured 74 booths selling a variety of food and drinks.
It also saw the presentation of a mock cheque for RM34,300 from Tan Guek Kee and Lee Siew Ling Charitable Foundation; RM10,000 from the Lee Onn Group; RM3,000 from Lion City Singapore Hainan Chicken Rice Sdn Bhd; and a personal contribution of RM5,000 from Kapitan Tan Kun Gee.
Aeroville Mall also managed to raise RM100,000 from the charity fair.