IT was a memorable day for some 1,500 members of the Panaikulam community who gathered for the Family Day event organised by the Panaikulam Association Malaysia at the Kompleks Belia dan Sukan Pulau Pinang in Batu Uban on Aug 16.
The one-day programme featured a wide range of activities aimed at strengthening family bonds and community ties.
Among them were kabaddi, futsal, colouring contests, an azan (call to prayer) competition for children, as well as various fun and interactive games designed to foster closer connections among members.
Panaikulam Association Malaysia spokesperson Dr Harrish Satia said the event drew participation not only from members in Penang but also from across the country.
“This annual Family Day serves as a platform to promote healthy family values which, in turn, contribute to building a harmonious community.
“After all, a strong family institution is the foundation of a better society,” Dr Harrish told Buletin Mutiara.
He added that prizes worth over RM50,000 were given away during the event, including an Umrah package, cash prizes, jewellery, television sets, and various electronic items.
The association also held its 17th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on the same day.
The Family Day celebration was graced by Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu and Federal Court Judge Datuk Seri Vazeer Alam Mydin Meera.
Meanwhile, Panaikulam Association Malaysia president Datuk Dr Anvar Hussain highlighted the association’s longstanding commitment to community welfare.
“Since its establishment in 2008, the Panaikulam Association Malaysia has actively organised various programmes to support the needy.
“These include festive aid during Hari Raya, youth-focused activities such as sports and recreation, women’s programmes like sewing classes, and religious events such as seminars, iftar gatherings, and celebrations for Maulidur Rasul, Maal Hijrah, and Hari Raya,” he said.
He further noted that the association has also been involved in charitable initiatives, including assistance for flood victims, Covid-19 aid, and support for single mothers.
“Our upcoming programme in Penang will focus specifically on the welfare of single mothers,” Dr Anvar shared.
Currently, the association has more than 5,000 registered members, with an estimated 50,000 eligible individuals nationwide. Of these, over 3,000 members hail from Penang.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of Panaikulam Association Malaysia