Fatimah (third right) handing over some goods to Abdul Rahman (third left) during the launch of Swinburne Ramadan Bazaar. Also seen are Wilson (second left) and other Swinburne Sarawak’s Executive Group members. — Photos by Chimon Upon
KUCHING: The state government appreciates the strong support it receives from various parties like Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus through collaborations in research, innovation, internship placements, teaching and learning and other related areas.
“The state government and its agencies have enjoyed a close working relationship with the university for the last 18 years,” said Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.
Speaking at the launch of the Swinburne Ramadan Bazaar, she added she was glad to see that newer welfare organisations such as the Pertubuhan Kebajikan Baiturrahmah were not overlooked this festive season.
“This is something we like to see. There are many organisations out there that help individuals who are disadvantaged and needy,” she said.
The Swinburne Ramadan Bazaar is a part of the university’s Corporate Social Responsibility programme which aims to support local businesses and give back to the community by offering discounted prices on their goods.
In addition, vendors are encouraged to pledge a minimal amount from their total sales to three charitable bodies; namely Pertubuhan Kebajikan Baiturrahmah, the Sarawak Society for Parents of Children with Special Needs (Pibakat) and Persatuan Ibu Tunggal Sarawak.
Fatimah announced a donation of RM2,000 to the funds.
Meanwhile, Swinburne deputy vice-chancellor and chief executive officer Professor John Wilson said that their inaugural Ramadan Bazaar last year attracted over 1,500 visitors throughout the three-day event and successfully raised and donated RM3,000 to three charitable bodies.
“This year, we hope to see a bigger turnout and collect a significantly higher amount of funds to be channelled to these three chosen bodies.”
This year’s three-day event began on Tuesday and ends May 23.
The bazaar operates from 4pm to 8pm daily, and features local and international food and beverages from over 20 participating vendors and food trucks.
Also present were Pertubuhan Kebajikan Baiturrahmah manager Abdul Rahman Hassan, Swinburne Sarawak’s Executive Group members, staff and students.
Fatimah (left) watches as a food vendor prepares a burger at his stall at Swinburne Ramadan Bazaar.