Translation: Siti Nur'Ain Feisal

Editing by: Nik Hafzaini Nik Hassan

KAJANG – Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the care between humans continues for the sake of holistic well-being. 

This is what Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) carrying out and executed through Alumni Relations Centre led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Prof. Dr. Arifin Abdu.

Alumni Relations Centre has contributed food, clothes, school supplies as well as items for Aidilfitri preparation to the orphanage and the poor at Pusat Jagaan Anak-Anak Yatim/Miskin Rukaiyah, Sungai Merab Luar Kajang on Friday.

Prof. Dr. Arifin stated that the donations were obtained from personal donations, companies, and also donation drive organised by Alumni Relations Centre among UPM staff and alumni.

“This year, the Musaadah Ramadan program includes two activities namely Tautah Mahabbah which focuses on welfare centres and Maawaddah Ramadan targeted for UPM students in need,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Director of Alumni Relations Centre, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arba’ie Sujud said, Tautan Mahabbah which is held annually is usually celebrated at UPM by inviting orphans and the poor.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Tautan Mahabbah continues in a way that Alumni Relations Centre identified the orphanage and the poor centre to distribute contributions to prevent the mass gathering,” he said.

He also stated that the contribution given is based on the centre’s requirement to carry out their operation and the children’s need to feel the joy of celebrating Ramadan and Aidilfitri. This is also part of the activities under UPM Prihatin by sharing responsibility to ensure the orphans' and the poor’s fate is secured.

The management of Rumah Anak-Anak Yatim dan Miskin Rukaiyah, represented by the Chairperson, Dr. Abdul Rahman Kurais said that they represented the children thanked them for the given contributions. At least they are able to feel the excitement of Ramadan and forthcoming Aidilfitri. 

Dr. Abdul Rahman also said that contributions and donations from external parties are highly encouraged to ensure the centre’s operation continues and children’s fate is protected.

The Rukaiyah Orphanage is inhabited by 11 boys and 22 girls with 12 caretakers. The children are ranging from 10 to 17 years old, and they came from underprivileged families.

Date of Input: 13/08/2021 | Updated: 13/08/2021 | hafzaini