KUCHING: The Sarawak State Mosque Welfare Trust Board (LAKMNS) is expanding its initiative to provide resting areas at the Raudhatul Sakinah Cemetery in Samariang, with plans to add five more open-concept gazebos.
Its chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai said the project is being carried out on land that has been generously donated (wakaf) for this purpose.
“These gazebos are designed to collect rainwater, which can be used for cleaning purposes.
“At night, solar-powered LED lights will illuminate them.
“Currently, we have two gazebos in place, and with the five new ones, we aim to provide a comfortable resting spot in every area of the cemetery,” he said in a recent interview on TVS.
He also said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has instructed the Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS) to establish a dedicated Wakaf Foundation to oversee all matters related to Islamic endowments.
“The foundation will streamline the registration process for people wishing to donate their land and avoid potential conflicts in the future,” he added.
Abang Abdul Wahap noted that while many elderly individuals wish to donate land, the lack of formal registration often leads to disputes among their heirs.
“Once registered, everything will be in black and white, and it can be managed properly,” he added.
Drawing inspiration from Egypt, where universities and hospitals are sustained through ‘wakaf’, he believes Sarawak can successfully incorporate similar models to further promote the practice of endowment.
He said LAKMNS is fully self-reliant, with no government funding, and operates through its own fundraising efforts.
He encouraged collaboration with other organisations to extend the board’s services and help more people understand LAKMNS’ valuable contributions to the community.
