KUCHING: Surau Mahmudi received RM50,000 in financial assistance under the ‘Projek Mesra Rakyat’ (PMR) to support its operational needs.
The cheque was presented by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof to Surau Mahmudi chairman Bolhasan Maarof in a simple ceremony held immediately after the Maghrib and Isyak congregational prayer.
Bolhasan said the assistance was timely as existing funds had been fully utilised for renovation works, including the construction of new pillars, fencing and a tower.
“As a result, there were almost no funds left to purchase prayer mats, so we brought this matter to the attention of the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office and, God willing, assistance will be provided,” he said when met with reporters at the surau yesterday (Dec 15).
Bolhassan also sought Fadillah’s support to allow Surau Mahmudi to hold Friday prayers.
He added that the surau had submitted several requests to hold Friday prayers due to overcrowding at Attaqwa mosque at Kampung Pinang Jawa, the only mosque within the mukim (local area).
“Currently, many residents travel to Darul Husni Warrahmah mosque, Taman Hussein/Rahmat to perform Friday prayers, which is located some distance away.
“We are reapplying, Insyallah, with a support letter from the Deputy Prime Minister, in hopes of obtaining approval next year to conduct Friday prayers at the surau.
“During the Covid period, we were allowed to temporarily hold Friday prayers here. It was crowded — even with physical distancing, it was still full and overflowed outside,” he said.
He also highlighted the strategic location of Surau Mahmudi near FAMA, Medan Niaga Satok and Tunku Abdul Rahman School, as well as the availability of ample parking, which makes it accessible especially for elderly worshippers.
“The number of those attending Friday prayers is increasing.
“In fact, having facilities nearby for performing Friday prayers is important, especially for the elderly and those who are frail, who are unable to travel far and need a closer place to pray,” he said.
He added that the surau can currently accommodate about 400 worshippers and has the potential to serve more if it is renovated or upgraded.
