WHILE a 1kg of meat may seem modest to some, it meant much more than just a portion of food to many in the community during the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration.
For recipients like veteran fisherman Ahmad Rumli Sharif, 73, the fresh meat distribution programme was deeply meaningful.
“It’s not just the meat. It’s knowing that we’re remembered,” said Ahmad Rumli, his weathered face breaking into a grateful smile.
“This simple gesture means a lot. I have nine family members and I look forward to sharing this meat with them.
“This kind of support strengthens our bond as a family,” said Ahmad Rumli, who has been a fisherman since 1966.
For fellow fisherman Roslan Yob, 60, the initiative brought not only relief but also a sense of recognition.
“I am very happy. This may seem small to some, but to us, it shows we are being remembered. It would be great if this could be done every year. It really lifts our spirits,” said Roslan, who is single and lives alone.
Both fishermen were among 70 recipients who received a packet of fresh meat each to mark the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration recently.
Organised by the Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd (SIDSB) through the Pusat Perkhidmatan Setempat Nelayan (PPSN) team, the event held at the Bukit Gemuruh Village Community Management Council (MPKK) hall in Teluk Kumbar was also supported by the Southern Penang Fishermen Association (PNKPPS).
PPSN serves as a community engagement centre that bridges the project and the local fishing community.
The aid was distributed to fishermen from several coastal villages in the southern part of Penang island, namely Permatang Tepi Laut, Sungai Batu, Teluk Kumbar and Gertak Sanggul.
PNKPPS president Badrul Hisham Hasim expressed his heartfelt appreciation to SIDSB for their ongoing commitment.
“We thank SIDSB for organising this event and, more importantly, for continuously looking after the welfare of our fishermen and their families.
“This is more than just aid. It is a symbol of care and unity within our fishing community,” Badrul Hisham said.
Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farizan Darus said the programme was part of an ongoing commitment to uplift and appreciate the contributions of those who play a vital role in ensuring food security for the nation.
PIC is the state special-purpose vehicle overseeing the Silicon Island development and community engagement efforts, including initiatives such as this.
“We are humbled and grateful to be able to extend our support to the fisherfolk communities through the distribution of fresh meat.
“Hari Raya Aidiladha is a time of reflection, sacrifice, and sharing with those in need. By reaching out to the fishing communities, many of whom work tirelessly under challenging conditions, we hope to bring a sense of joy and togetherness during this meaningful occasion.
“We believe in fostering strong, compassionate relationships with the communities around us,” he said.
Also present at the event were PNKPPS deputy president Roslizan Ramli and SIDSB Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Management head Ann Tan.
Pix courtesy of Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd