KLUANG: Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi marked his first official visit to his constituency this year with a memorable appearance at a pre-school convocation ceremony yesterday.
The event, organised by the Community Development Department (Kemas), saw 526 children from 28 Kemas preschools in the Simpang Renggam parliamentary area graduating.
It also celebrated the kindergarten's appreciation ceremony and its IQFA (religious studies) convocation.
Onn Hafiz was greeted by several preschoolers dressed as astronauts as he entered the Simpang Renggam hall, creating an atmosphere that felt like a space mission.
The children's infectious energy and excitement as they met the Menteri Besar were palpable, with Onn Hafiz kneeling to greet them at eye level.
"The moment I walked in and saw the children dressed as astronauts, it felt like I was being ushered into a space mission. Their enthusiasm was contagious and truly heartwarming," he said in his speech.
A standout moment came when student Aidan Dahin Mohd Khairul, tasked with reciting the Rukun Negara, became so thrilled by Onn Hafiz's presence that he clung to him, repeatedly hugging him.
The heartfelt gestures left Onn Hafiz visibly moved, as teachers gently encouraged Aidan to share the attention with other excited children.
"Aidan's performance reciting the Rukun Negara with confidence and passion is admirable.
"Children like Aidan remind us of the innocence and joy we strive to nurture. Moments like these reaffirm my pride in Kemas for their dedication to early childhood education," he added.
Kemas, a programme that provides quality early education and community development initiatives, continues to play a crucial role in shaping Johor's communities, both rural and urban.
"Kemas is more than just a preschool programme; it's a pillar of community empowerment, instilling foundational values in our children and nurturing their potential," Onn Hafiz said.
The ceremony was also attended by Layang-Layang assemblyman Abd Mutalip Abd Rahim, Kluang district officer Azurawati Wahid, Simpang Renggam district council resident Mohd Fa'iz Salehon, and state Kemas director Zamri Muhamad.