Nearly RM400,000 raised in fundraiser to help rebuild five longhouses destroyed by fire

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Ting (left) presents a mock cheque to a representative to one of the affected longhouses. The mock cheque was a symbolic gesture to a donation given by the state government to rebuild his longhouse recently.

KUCHING: Organisers of the Padungan Street Party have managed to raised nearly RM400,000 last night to help rebuild the five longhouses which were destroyed by fire.

The longhouses are located in the highland areas of Sarawak, specifically at Long Palai in Telang Usan, Long Peluan in Ulu Baram, Long Seridan in Ulu Tutoh, Long Tuyut in Ulu Lapok and Bued Main Beruh in Bario.

Although the exact total of the money raised will only be known after the event, the organisers, Project New Beginnings, are optimistic that it will reach RM400,000.

“We would like to thank those who have donated money for our charity work here. The main reason why we did this fundraiser is because we understand that the victims of the tragedies suffer the helplessness of not having the resources to rebuild their homes and rebuild their lives,” said Jacqueline Fong who is one of the organising committee members.

Among those who donated a huge sum to the fundraiser was Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg who donated RM50,000.

Abang Johari’s donation to the fundraiser was announced by Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Sebastian Ting during the event’s launching ceremony.

“The state government appreciates the efforts of the private individuals behind Project New Beginnings and the sincere generosity of the public at large. I am very pleased to convey the state government’s thank you to the people of Kuching and the people of Sarawak for your swift response and your charity when there is a sincere and meaningful call to action,” said Abang Johari.

Rain did not deter members of the public from attending the party.

Ting also revealed that local elected representatives of the areas where the five longhouses are located were also requested to donate to the fund raiser as well.

Commenting on the Padungan Street Party, Ting said that the street party is truly an interesting concept as eateries in Padungan are for catering the party, and inviting the entire city to join in the festivities.

Drizzling rain did not deter members of the public to come and enjoy themselves during the party as some of them together with Ting and other distinguished guests sat on tables while holding their umbrellas.

Ting also presented donation cheques to representatives of a few of the affected longhouses during the event.