Ketuk Sahur In Nangka Promotes Togetherness Across Diverse Communities

SIBU, March 7 (Bernama) -- The Ketuk Sahur tradition, observed exclusively during Ramadan, is being celebrated in the Nangka state constituency to promote community unity and strengthen ties among people of diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.

Organised by the Nangka Service Centre in collaboration with the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), this year’s programme has been made more inclusive with the participation of non-Muslim communities.

Led by Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, and Nangka Assemblyman, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa’ee, the event began early yesterday morning with 20 participants having sahur (pre-dawn meal) at the home of community leader Catherine Ali Puteh, a Melanau Roman Catholic, in Kampung Nangka.

“This marks the start of the Ketuk Sahur programme in Nangka. Hosting the event at the home of a non-Muslim community member reflects the strong racial and religious harmony within Sibu and Sarawak as a whole,” said Dr Annuar.

The term Ketuk Sahur, derived from the word ‘ketuk-ketuk,’ refers to the tradition of tapping on wood or drums to create a rhythmic melody - a non-verbal method used to wake the community for sahur.

This Ramadan, the programme has expanded its reach, delivering sahur meals to 250 homes across 10 locations within the Nangka constituency.

The latest round of the programme, which ran from 4.00 am to 5.30 am in Kampung Nangka, continued this morning in Kampung Baru, where 25 homes received sahur meals.

Besides strengthening community bonds, the visits allowed Dr Annuar to engage with residents and assess local needs, including improving public amenities such as street lighting and road conditions.

The initiative highlights the spirit of unity and Dr Annuar's commitment to the welfare of all residents, regardless of their religious or cultural background.

-- BERNAMA