KUCHING: Around 400 needy families received essential supplies during the grand birthday tribute and incense offering ceremony in honour of Her Holy Mother Mazu.
The Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) council member, Sih Hua Tong, said the initiative reflects the values and teachings associated with Her Holy Mother Mazu, which emphasise compassion and helping those in need.
“The aid (charity food baskets), comprising 400 bags of essential supplies such as rice and sugar was distributed after prayers as part of the day’s community outreach,” he told Sarawak Tribune when met during the event at The Festival Marquee Tent, Jalan Petanak, here today (May 9).
He also expressed appreciation for the presence of Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who attended and later witnessed the distribution of food baskets to the needy.
The programme continued with the handover of food packs to caregivers of cancer patients from the Sarawak General Hospital Cancer Clinic, extending support beyond the immediate community.
Sih said this initiative was introduced after recognising the financial hardships faced by caregivers accompanying patients for treatment.
“Over the past two to three years, we have come to understand the challenges faced by caregivers who accompany cancer patients for treatment.
“Many travel long distances from places such as Miri, Lawas, Kapit and Belaga, and bear significant expenses for both themselves and the patients.
“We have personally observed that some caregivers go without proper meals, with a few relying only on drinking water or limiting themselves to one meal a day to save money and some even sleep along hospital corridors as they cannot afford accommodation,” he said.
In response,he added that, food packs containing essential items such as biscuits, instant noodles, oats and cereal were supplied and placed at the clinic for distribution by medical staff based on need.
“The food packs are managed like a food bank. We leave it to the discretion of the medical staff, as they are in the best position to identify those who require assistance,” he added.
He added that the effort will continue, with supplies replenished whenever requested by the clinic to ensure ongoing support for caregivers.
For the record, the ceremony was held in conjunction with the 3rd Borneo Mazu Cultural Festival 2026, which runs from May 3 to 10 and features religious, cultural and community programmes centred on the worship of Her Holy Mother Mazu.
