Curtin Malaysia students spread Ramadan cheer through Bubur Lambuk distribution

Miri, Sarawak – 24 March 2024 – In the spirit of Ramadan, students from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) stepped beyond the classroom to make a real difference, joining hands with local organisations to distribute Bubur Lambuk and share an Iftar meal with the Taman Tunku community.

The initiative, part of their Acclaimation of Ethics and Civilisation (PEP) unit, provided the students with a first-hand experience of community engagement, reinforcing values of generosity, unity, and cultural appreciation.

Organised in collaboration with the Taman Tunku Children Activity Centre (PAKKTT), Masjid Jamek Addin, Children Welfare Team (PKKK), and Curtin Malaysia, the two-day event was a heartfelt effort to bring people together during the holy month.

The students rolled up their sleeves to prepare the traditional porridge, Bubur Lambuk, alongside local volunteers. The following day, they distributed the porridge to families in Taman Tunku, as well as to nearby mosques, Miri Prison, and Sekolah Tunas Bakti (P) Miri, before concluding the initiative with a warm and welcoming Iftar ceremony at Jamek Addin Mosque in Taman Tunku.

The event was officiated by Deputy Mayor of Miri City, Haji Ariffin Mohamad, who commended the students’ involvement, highlighting how small acts of kindness foster stronger community ties.

PEP Unit Coordinator Nancy Ujan underscored the significance of inclusivity: “This event transcends religious boundaries. Though rooted in Ramadan, it unites people from all walks of life, celebrating Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity through shared experiences.”

The initiative also received unwavering support from Curtin Malaysia lecturers, who joined the students in their efforts and reinforced the university’s commitment to community service.

PAKKTT Chairperson and Senior Lecturer at Curtin Malaysia, Valerie Velina Anaelechi, expressed gratitude for the collaboration: “This programme is a testament to unity and compassion. It reminds us of the importance of giving back and ensuring every child feels valued. We look forward to expanding our outreach with even greater community involvement.”

Beyond distributing food, the event nurtured a spirit of giving and engagement. Local children actively participated in the preparations, embodying the power of collective goodwill. Encouraged by the initiative’s success, the organisers are eager to develop future programmes, such as football training, free tuition classes, and academic support, further enriching the lives of children in Taman Tunku.

The PAKKTT Centre, currently located above 7-Eleven Taman Tunku, continues to serve as a safe space for children, offering a reading corner stocked with books donated by the community and Curtin Malaysia’s December 2023 initiative. With sustained support, the centre aims to empower young minds and create lasting positive change.

Through acts of kindness and unity, the Bubur Lambuk Distribution and Iftar Programme has reinforced the values of compassion and togetherness, making Ramadan even more meaningful for all involved.

For more information, visit Curtin Malaysia’s website at curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Curtin Malaysia students and lecturers pose with volunteers in front of Jamek Addin Mosque, Taman Tunku

Students packing Bubur Lambuk before distributing it to residents, nearby mosques, Miri Prison, and Sekolah Tunas Bakti (P) Miri