BY AMYLY YONG KAI HUI & NEVILLE TIMOTHY SANDERS
KUCHING: A total of 71,400 food packages have been distributed to eight specialised agencies by the Sarawak Women and Family Department (JWKS) in conjunction with the inaugural Sumbangsih Gawai Dayak 2025.
Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the initiative serves as a heartfelt gesture of appreciation to the nation’s uniformed personnel who will be on duty during the festive season.
“This is a manifestation of concern, inclusiveness, sincere remembrance and appreciation from the Premier and the Sarawak Government towards the sacrifices made by our security and uniformed forces, regardless of race or religion, during festive holidays,” she said.
Although this marks the first-ever Sumbangsih Gawai, Fatimah noted that the list of recipient agencies remains unchanged, with each receiving a designated number of packages.
“This year’s packages were put together with special touches compared to previous distributions.
“Despite time constraints following Sumbangsih Raya, we ensured that each set included enhanced elements to reflect the spirit of Gawai,” she said.
She made the remarks during the launch of Sumbangsih Gawai 2025, officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex today.
Fatimah also highlighted that the packing process took place from May 16 to 19, with strong support from JWKS volunteers. She stressed that quality control, particularly for food items, was a key priority.
“With consistent annual allocations from the government, we are confident that Sumbangsih Raya, Sumbangsih Tahun Baharu Cina and now Sumbangsih Gawai will continue as annual events in the years ahead,” she said.
The eight agencies receiving the Gawai donations include the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM), and other uniformed units.
