SIBU: Community service should not be seasonal or confined to large-scale programmes; instead, it should be carried out through direct presence and interaction with the people.
In line with this approach, the Youth and Women wings of the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Pelawan Division distributed 500 mooncakes to the local community here on Wednesday (Sept 16) in conjunction with the Mid-Autumn Festival.
The programme, led by Youth chief Willie Ling Wei Lee and Women chief Cathy Lau, also provided an opportunity for members of both wings to engage with residents, listen to their views, and offer direct support.
Among the locations visited were areas around Pelawan, Pasar Sungai Merah and nearby coffee shops, Medan Selera Sungai Antu, and Sungai Antu basketball courts.
More than simply distributing mooncakes, the outreach programme highlighted the importance of building lasting relationships with the community and understanding the concerns and needs of residents at the grassroots level.
Ling said the festival, which is synonymous with family values and togetherness, also provided an opportunity to foster the spirit of sharing and strengthen ties within the community.
“Although a mooncake may be a small gift, what is more important is the sincerity behind our effort to go out and meet the community ourselves.
“For us, the role of the Youth wing is not merely to organise programmes, but to always reach out to the people, listen to their voices, and understand the needs of the local community,” he said.
He said reaching out to the community did not necessarily require large-scale programmes, as small actions carried out consistently could also make a meaningful difference.
“As long as an effort can benefit the people and bring a little joy to the community, it is a meaningful effort,” he said.
Ling said the PDP Pelawan Youth wing would continue encouraging young people to not merely be observers, but to step forward, participate in community activities, and serve the community continuously.
Meanwhile, Lau said the spirit of the festival was closely associated with the values of family, unity, care, and sharing.
“Service to the people does not necessarily have to be through large programmes.
“Sometimes, a conversation, a small gift, or simply taking the time to listen to the problems and views of residents is also part of serving the community.
“We hope that through activities like this, the relationship between the Youth and Women wings and the local community will become closer,” she said.
