PAPAR: Head of State Tun Musa Aman opened the RM3.1 million Kompleks Anak Yatim dan Asnaf As-Sakinah, built through public donations collected over more than 10 years.
Musa said caring for orphans is not only a social responsibility but also a religious obligation, especially for those blessed with wealth, position and means.
“In Islam, caring for and loving orphans is highly emphasised. They must be treated with compassion, their dignity respected and their welfare protected. We are taught not to marginalise them, but to approach them with kindness and sincerity,” he said when officiating the complex on Thursday.
He said the construction of the complex reflects the community’s concern for orphans and asnaf (eligible zakat recipients), and represents the spirit of continuous charity (sedekah jariah) among Muslims.
“I have visited this place several times before when it was just a small and basic building that was not comfortable enough for the children.
“Thanks to the strong commitment and perseverance of the management and donors, we now see a more complete, conducive and suitable building for the children,” he said.
Musa also contributed RM10,000 to the complex, which currently houses 33 orphans and asnaf.
He hoped the management would focus on education, spiritual development and life skills training to help the children become independent and contribute to society in the future.
“This complex is not only a shelter, but also an institution for character building, education and future development. I am pleased that some of the children here have secured opportunities to further their studies at universities nationwide,” he said.
He also advised the children to study hard, stay disciplined and work towards their goals, reminding them that losing their parents does not mean the end of their future.
At the same event, Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS) President Yahya Hussin presented a RM30,000 contribution to the Board of Trustees of Rumah Anak Yatim dan Asnaf As-Sakinah, represented by Samin Ongki.
Also present were Local Government and Housing Minister Mohd Ariffin Arif and Yayasan Sabah Group Director Ghulamhaidar Yusof Khan Bahadar.
