Sultan Azlan Shah Foundation Eases the Burden of 71 Asnaf in Hilir Perak Through 2025 Ramadan Infak
Sultan Azlan Shah Foundation Eases the Burden of 71 Asnaf in Hilir Perak Through 2025 Ramadan Infak
On the 28th of Ramadan 1446 Hijrah, corresponding to March 29, 2025, a blessed atmosphere enveloped the grounds of the Office of the Orang Besar Jajahan Hilir Perak. This was the venue for the 2025 Ramadan Infak Ceremony organized by the Sultan Azlan Shah Foundation (YSAS), an annual program that has become a noble tradition in easing the burden of those in need as Syawal approaches.
This meaningful ceremony was officiated by Yang Berbahagia Dato' Haji Meor Redwan Bin Mahayuddin, the Orang Kaya-Kaya Laksamana Raja Mahkota Perak, who is also the Orang Besar Jajahan Hilir Perak. His presence was not merely a matter of protocol, but carried a direct mandate from the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah. Also present to show support was YDH Toh Mahkota Lela, Haji Abu Bakar @ Yusof Bin Mohammad, one of the 32 Orang Besar of Perak Darul Ridzuan, who is always active in charitable work.
In this blessed month of Ramadan, 71 beneficiaries from the Hilir Perak District received donations that will certainly ease their burden in celebrating Aidilfitri. This program is part of the Sultan Azlan Shah Foundation's ongoing commitment to fulfilling its social responsibilities, particularly towards the asnaf and those living in hardship.
History proves that since its inception, the Sultan Azlan Shah Foundation has played a vital role in developing the Perak community through various charitable initiatives. According to the 2024 YSAS annual report, RM3.2 million was allocated specifically for welfare programs throughout the state of Perak, with Ramadan Infak being one of the main focuses.
In his passionate speech, the Dato' Orang Besar Jajahan Hilir Perak emphasized that this program is not just about material giving, but carries deeper values. "YSAS is always sensitive to the needs of the people, especially during the month of Ramadan and as Aidilfitri approaches," he said. "Sharing wealth with those in need is not just a social responsibility, but also a noble religious requirement."
His words remind us all of the word of Allah in Surah Al-Baqarah verse 267, which commands believers to spend from the good things they have earned.
The success of this program would not have been possible without the close cooperation between the Office of the Orang Besar Jajahan Hilir Perak and various stakeholders. Among those playing key roles were the Durian Sebatang Mukim Penghulu Office, which acted as a liaison between YSAS and the local community; the Masjid Melayu Teluk Intan, which helped identify eligible asnaf and families; and several local volunteer organizations that contributed manpower and information.
The selection process for recipients was conducted thoroughly and systematically to ensure that aid reached those most in need. Key criteria considered included the family's economic status, with priority given to households with an income below RM1,500, children's education, as well as Persons with Disabilities (OKU) and elderly individuals living alone.
The 2025 Ramadan Infak Ceremony is actually more than just an annual event. It is a clear testament to the Sultan Azlan Shah Foundation's commitment to championing the plight of the people, especially during critical times leading up to the festival. Programs like this not only provide material aid but also succeed in cultivating noble values such as neighborliness, social concern, and the awareness to share one's blessings.
With the solid support of local leaders and the community, it is hoped that such initiatives can be expanded to more districts in Perak in the future. As Sultan Nazrin Shah once said in a speech, "True happiness lies in our ability to give, not to receive."
In conclusion, the 2025 Ramadan Infak Ceremony not only succeeded in easing the burden of 71 families but also ignited the spirit of a blessed Ramadan. It serves as proof that when welfare institutions, community leaders, and the people work hand in hand, many social issues can be overcome with wisdom and compassion.
May programs like this continue to grow and benefit more parties in the future, while further strengthening the unity and well-being of the Perak community as a whole.
Summary by Saiful Rezal
