BATU Gajah Member of Parliament V Sivakumar has continued his annual initiative to support local mosques and suraus by distributing RM5,000 to each of 40 religious institutions in his constituency, amounting to a total of RM200,000.
The contributions are intended to assist mosque and surau committees in organising iftar programmes and other religious activities that benefit local congregations throughout the holy month of Ramadan.
Speaking at the donation handover ceremony on Saturday, Sivakumar reflected on the origins of the initiative, which he launched in 2008.
He recalled the early days as an opposition MP when financial constraints limited the size of his contributions.
“At that time, as an opposition representative, I faced financial limitations in providing significant aid to houses of worship. During Ramadan, some mosques and suraus requested only RM300, RM400 or RM500, understanding my circumstances,” he said.
“I felt the amount was insufficient, yet they were appreciative and would invite me to the iftar events.”
Sivakumar, who serves as Perak’s Deputy Chairman of the DAP, said those experiences motivated him to provide more substantial support when he gained the opportunity to represent his constituency as part of the government.
The larger allocations began in 2023, with RM5,000 given to each mosque and surau, a practice he pledged to continue in future years.
“I want them to know that as soon as Ramadan arrives, this support will be available so they can plan iftar, moreh, and other religious programmes efficiently and comprehensively,” he added.
The handover ceremony was attended by approximately 350 representatives from local mosques and suraus, village heads, and the Orang Besar Jajahan Kinta, Datuk Ab Wahab Azizul Hassan.
The initiative highlights a sustained effort to empower local religious institutions, ensuring that community members can engage in structured and meaningful Ramadan activities. - February 22, 2026
