KUCHING: In the spirit of Deepavali, students and volunteers from the Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) SJK Chung Hua No. 5, Kuching (Stampin Branch), brightened the day for devotees at the Sri Srinivasagar Kaliamman Temple with a festive donation of goodies and essentials.
The initiative, held on Saturday morning, was led by Tay Kok Ing, Headmistress of SJK Chung Hua No. 5, and Chew Kim Soon, Chairman of the Malaysian Red Crescent Stampin Branch, with teachers, students and volunteers.
According to a statement, they assembled and delivered packages filled with traditional Deepavali treats, daily essentials, and symbolic festive gifts.
“It’s a celebration of unity, compassion, and cultural appreciation. We want our students to understand the importance of giving and to experience the joy of sharing with others during festive seasons,” Tay said.
Chew described the occasion as an opportunity to promote understanding and goodwill among Sarawak’s diverse communities.
“Deepavali is a time of light and hope. Through this small act, we hope to brighten the lives of those in our community and strengthen the bonds of togetherness across all backgrounds,” he said.
The donation was warmly received by Vaithilingam Palanisami, Vice-Chairman of the Hindu Temple Association Kuching, and Rahul Gaurav Puvandran of Sri Srinivasagar Kaliamman Temple, who expressed heartfelt appreciation for the school’s thoughtful gesture, which brought smiles to temple members and devotees preparing for the Festival of Lights.
The event also featured a short cultural exchange session, where students learned about the significance of Deepavali, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness, and the values of harmony, kindness, and mutual respect that underpin the celebration.
“Through community outreach like this, our young volunteers learn empathy and civic responsibility,” Chew added.
