SERIAN: Initiatives by Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) through its social impact arm Yayasan Petronas are exemplary in fostering a more inclusive, sustainable, and harmonious society, said Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Sarawak Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.

He said social inclusion was a core component of Sarawak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, aimed at ensuring economic benefits reach all levels of society, particularly the B40 (low-income) group and rural communities.

"The ‘Petronas Memacu Kehidupan Gawai 2025’ programme today aligns with the objectives of PCDS 2030.

"Organised in partnership between Petronas and the Welfare Department (JKM) Serian Division, the programme reached out to 150 recipients through the distribution of essential food baskets in the Serian District.

"These contributions not only alleviated the burden during the festive season but also brought joy to families celebrating Gawai Dayak," he said when officiating at the programme in Kampung Tarat Melawi here yesterday.

Each food basket present during the event contained cooking oil, glutinous rice, canned goods, condiments, and locally-produced coffee.

Petronas Sarawak general manager Norazibah Md Rabu handed over the festive contributions to Serian Division Welfare officer Robert Jullong Bengat.

In her speech, Norazibah said the initiative reaffirmed Yayasan Petronas’ commitment to upli ing marginalised communities.

She said the programme was part of Petronas’ Community Well-being and Development initiative, aimed at spreading festive joy.

"We believe that everyone deserves happiness, especially when celebrating meaningful occasions such as Gawai," she said.

A total of 750 families across Sarawak had been selected to receive the contributions this Gawai Dayak, including 400 households in Miri and Bintulu, she added.

“It is our hope that these contributions not only lessen the burden of those in need but also kindle the festive spirit of Gawai – filled with gratitude, love and joy,” said Norazibah.