Petronas, MMEA treat orphans to ‘iftar’ feast

BINTULU: Petronas Carigali SK Gas in collaboration with Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency ( MMEA) Bintulu hosted an ‘iftar’ ( break- of-fast) gathering for 93 orphans from Peryatim Complex at Kampung Jepak here on Thursday.

The company also distributed food baskets to the orphans.

Earlier Petronas and MMEA Bintulu staff joined hands in preparing the signature ‘ bubur lambuk’ (traditional rich and savoury rice porridge) as part of the dishes for the ‘iftar’.

There were also talks on safety and single buoy mooring (SBM), search and recover (SAR) preventive and law enforcement at sea to educate and instil safety awareness in the local community – the majority of whom are fishermen.

Minister in Chief Minister’s Office (Integrity and Ombudsman) and Jepak assemblyman Datuk Talib Zulpilip, who was accompanied by his wife Datin Dr Zaleha Abdullah officiated at the opening ceremony.

Speaking at the event, Talib expressed his gratitude to both Petronas and MMEA for hosting the ‘iftar’ gathering for the lessfortunate children during the holy month of Ramadan.

“We need more corporate organisations to contribute to the wellbeing of the local community, particularly in easing the burden of the needy group,” he said.

Meanwhile, Petronas Carigali SK Gas senior general manager Morris Mail said the safety of local fishermen has always been Petronas’ utmost concern and priority, especially when they have to go out fishing within the vicinity of Petronas offshore platforms.

“Last February, Petronas Carigali SK Gas in collaboration with Universiti Putra Malaysia initiated the ‘ Fish- 4- Life’ programme for 126 fishermen from Kuala Nyalau, Kuala Tatau, Sebauh and Jepak registered under the Bintulu Area Fishermen Association.

“The participants were taught on fish-breeding techniques – an alternative for the fishermen to procure more fish other than having to go out to sea, especially during monsoon season,” he added.

Morris also regarded the ‘iftar’ event as not only a way to foster closer ties with the local community, but also to strengthen the cooperation between Petronas and the local authorities and agencies like the MMEA.

Bintulu Zone Maritime assistant director Timothy Alexander and Bintulu Resident Jack Aman Luat were also present.