KOTA KINABALU: The Christmas spirit filled the air in three districts recently when teams from Yayasan Petronas brought cheer to the rural folk in conjunction with the festive season.
As part of its Christmas “Sentuhan Kasih” programmme, the foundation’s representatives came bearing gifts and held activities which brought smiles to the faces of the 350 families in three separate events.
The families were from the Bottom 40 per cent (B40) income group.
The latest event was held at Kampung Senagang in Keningau district, yesterday.
The previous ones were held in Kiulu on Dec 15 and Labuan on Dec 13.
A total of 100 families took part in the festivity in Keningau, and villagers helped enliven the atmosphere with traditional performances.
Petronas Sabah and Labuan regional office head Rokiah Sulaiman said the programme was a continuation of the company’s tradition to reach out to communities nationwide in conjunction with major festivals such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Kaamatan, Gawai, Deepavali and Chinese New Year.
“Through this programme, we aim to nurture and enhance the spirit of giving and volunteerism among Petronas’ employees by providing them with a platform to interact and engage with the people of various communities,” she said.
In Kampung Senagang, Keningau, Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre head Moh Ariffin A. Ahaling handed over groceries to each family.
Children received Christmas gifts and were treated to a fun learning activity conducted by Petrosains, Petronas’s science discovery centre.
Guests were entertained by carollers and a traditional dance was performed by the villagers.
In Kampung Regading, Kiulu, Yayasan Petronas contributed food items to 100 families and six units of industrial fans.
“We gather each year to celebrate Christmas. This year, we are grateful that Petronas came not only to celebrate with us, but also to hand over contributions,” said Kiulu Village Community Management Council chairman Connel Lunggi.
In Labuan, 150 families received similar contributions.
Yayasan Petronas also contributed five wheelchairs to Labuan Nucleus Hospital and personal hygiene care products to 100 patients, who were receiving treatment at the hospital.