A special Tazkirah titled “Caring for the Disabled Community” was the highlight of the ‘Qalbun Salim’ Ceremony held on Monday to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) 2024. Delivered by Religious Officer from the Islamic Da’wah Centre Awang Mohammad Nasyith bin Superi, the Tazkirah addressed societal perceptions of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and the challenges they face due to negative attitudes.
Awang Mohammad Nasyith (pic left) emphasised that such perceptions are inappropriate and urged the community to view PWD as an opportunity to earn spiritual rewards by offering support and assistance. He called for fostering compassion and understanding, aligning with the values of a faithful Muslim society.
The ceremony, hosted by the Department of Community Development (JAPEM), took place at the Suri Seri Begawan Raja Pengiran Anak Damit Mosque, Kampung Manggis Madang. It was graced by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Nazmi bin Haji Awang Mohamad, as the guest of honour.
The event aimed to express appreciation for the invaluable contributions of PWD to community development and saw over 130 attendees. It began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and tahlil led by Imam Awang Khaizuran Amali bin Haji Kamsami.
As part of its inclusivity efforts, the ceremony featured Awang Abdul Aziz bin Assan, an Education Officer from Sayyidina Ali Secondary School, Kuala Belait, as a sign language interpreter to ensure individuals with hearing disabilities could fully participate in the event.
The ceremony concluded with the mass Fardhu Asar prayer.
Purple lights illuminate Brunei for IDPWD
To further mark IDPWD, key landmarks across Brunei, including the Sultan Haji Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Bridge (SHOAS) and the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, are illuminated in purple lights. The illumination will begin Monday night and will continue until December 3, from 7:00 pm to midnight, symbolising solidarity and support. The public is encouraged to share photos of the illuminated landmarks on social media with the hashtags #HAOKU2024 and #IDPWD. – Lyna Mohammad
