KOTA TINGGI: A group of youths at Felda settlements here has come up with a novel way of waking up their neighbours for "sahur".
Comprising second-, third-, and fourth-generation settlers, the youths will go around the settlements and beat the "kompang" to make sure everyone wakes up for the pre-dawn meal.
Johor Baru Felda Youth Council executive committee member Afifi Ezuan Samsu said the activity was conducted every weekend at Felda Adela, Felda Sening, Felda Kledang and Felda Tunggal.
He said the group would go around the neighbourhood on a lorry playing the "kompang" and reciting the "selawat" (praises to the Prophet).
He said the response from the residents had been encouraging.
"Alhamdulillah, this year's programme is merrier than in previous years as we have gathered 150 participants compared with 30 in 2018.
"The younger generation joins the activity voluntarily, and the residents support the initiative.
"So far, there are no issues about the youths being noisy with their 'kompang' playing.
"Most of the residents here are Muslims, and they do not mind our effort in waking them up for 'sahur'," said Afifi, who is also a Kota Tinggi Youth Council exco member.
Meanwhile, Penawar assemblyman Fauziah Misri said the initiative had been emulated by Felda Air Tawar 5 and Felda Air Tawar 4, with the "kompang" players riding in a motorcycle convoy.
She added that it was part of the efforts to enliven the month of Ramadan.
"We will expand the programme to other Felda settlements here. It does an excellent job of bringing young people together.
"It is also a good way to prevent them from getting involved in social ills."
She said the programme brought some cheer during "sahur".
"Most of the residents here are from the older generation, so at least the neighbourhood does not become too quiet during those times."
ENDS
#kw: KOTA TINGGI, sahur, kompang, Felda Adela, Afifi Ezuan Samsu, lorry, convoy, motorcycle, Penawar, assemblyman, Fauziah Misri