By Kartika Rahman
Her Royal Highness Princess 'Azemah Ni'matul Bolkiah yesterday called on members of the public, especially the public sector, professionals in health and care giving, to show commitment and concern in assisting Pusat Ehsan's efforts to provide physical and spiritual support to individuals with special needs, so as to achieve their mission in providing opportunities for these individuals to reach their full potential.
"Individuals with special needs have the same rights as everyone else in leading a life that is active and meaningful," said Her Royal Highness in her sabda Sunday afternoon.
Her Royal Highness spoke during the presentation of contribution by the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation to Pusat Ehsan centre.
From this year onwards, the foundation will contribute $50,000 to the centre. Her Royal Highness received B$200,000 on behalf of Pusat Ehsan from the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the foundation, Pehin Dato Awg Hj Badaruddin. The amount constitutes four years worth of donations, backdated from 2002.
Present during the handing over ceremony was Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bulqiah, the Mosque Committee, directors and members of the Board for the Pusat Ehsan Charity Fund, and invited guests.
Her Royal Highness said commitment from the community is needed in accomplishing the vision of the centre.
HRH also said support from the government agencies such as the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Development can provide several services that are needed by the centre.
HRH added, the Pusat Ehsan centre appreciates all the support given by the foundation.
The event began with the recital of al-Fatihah by Pehin Dato Awang Haji Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin. This was followed by a welcoming speech from Dato Awang Haji Ali Hashim bin Haji Daud, Administrative Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.
Dato Hj Ali Hashim said the contribution is aimed at assisting in the running of Pusat Ehsan's operations and activities. These activities are designed for those who are physically challenged, disabled in sight and hearing, as well as those with psychological problems.
Furthermore, Yayasan fully supports the efforts of NGOs, such as the centre, which has taken the initiative in providing a programme in raising the well-being and welfare of the nation.
Her Royal Highness then consented to present Pusat Ehsan's token of appreciation to Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, which was received by Pehin Dato Awang Haji Badaruddin.
After a briefing about the centre's history, mission and vision, activities and programmes, as well as administrative background by Dato Haji Mohd Alimin, a member of the Board for the Pusat Ehsan Charity Fund, a doa Selamat to bless the event was read by Pehin Dato Awang Haji Suhaili.
The event concluded with Her Royal Highness Princess touring facilities at Pusat Ehsan, accompanied by the mosque committee, directors and members of the Board for the Pusat Ehsan Charity Fund, and invited guests. The tour took them to the various training sections at the centre.
- Borneo Bulletin
(10th Apr 2006)
