RANAU: A Ramadhan outreach programme by Sabah Electricity brought aid and community support to residents of Kampung Karanaan as the utility company distributed RM30,000 in “Wakalah Zakat” assistance to asnaf families, a mosque and a tahfiz centre in the area.
The “Seikhlas Budi, Sesuci Ramadan” programme, held at the village’s open hall, was attended by Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II and State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, who is also Karanaan Assemblyman.
In his speech, Masidi commended Sabah Electricity for continuing its efforts to give back to the community during the holy month of Ramadan.
He said the company’s zakat distribution not only helps ease the financial burden of underprivileged groups but also strengthens the relationship between government-linked companies, the corporate sector and the local community.
“Efforts such as this reflect compassion and solidarity during Ramadan while supporting the well-being of the people regardless of race,” he said.
Masidi noted the State Government welcomes the involvement of corporations, individuals and non-governmental organisations in carrying out corporate social responsibility initiatives to assist vulnerable groups, including the poor, orphans, persons with disabilities and single mothers.
He hoped those receiving zakat assistance would one day improve their circumstances and become contributors themselves.
“No one can change our fate except ourselves,” he said, encouraging the community to strengthen their faith and increase acts of worship during Ramadan.
Masidi also highlighted Sabah Electricity’s role in strengthening power infrastructure in the district, including the construction of the Ranau 33/11kV Main Distribution Substation valued at more than RM30 million.
The project connects the district directly to the Sabah electricity grid and benefits more than 15,000 users, improving supply stability in Ranau and nearby Kundasang.
Meanwhile, Sabah Electricity Chairman Saadiah Aziz said the company remains committed to supporting communities through its corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Saadiah also informed residents about the RM40 electricity bill rebate initiative introduced by the government, which provides monthly rebates to eligible households registered under the eKasih system as hardcore poor.
The rebate, she said, helps reduce the cost of living for rural households and will be automatically reflected in their monthly electricity bills.
She encouraged eligible residents to ensure their information is updated in the eKasih system and that they are registered electricity users to benefit from the assistance.
