LANGKAWI: A total of 157 special students and orphans, accompanied by their teachers and caregivers, were treated to a sumptuous meal recently at the Berjaya Langkawi Resort.
The teachers and students were from SMK Tunku Putra, SMK Kedawang, SK Ulu Melaka, SK Selat Bagan Nyior, SMK Ayer Hangat, SK Penghulu Ahmad and the Anjung Kasih Langkawi Orphanage.
Organised by Berjaya Hotels and Resorts, the special guests were served Malay cuisine favourites such as nasi kerabu, nasi tomato, ayam masak merah, beef rendang and chicken nuggets, among others.
They also had traditional desserts, light snacks and kueh, which included tepung pelita, pulut panggang, agar-agar, popiah, roti jala and cakes.
The students also received duit raya, which added to their joy.
Some of the students put on heartwarming performances, which showcased their talents and creativity.
Berjaya Hotels and Resorts area general manager Adrian Chung said hosting the event was part of the Berjaya Group annual corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme.
“Our CSR campaigns are always in line with the philosophy of Berjaya Group founder and adviser Tan Sri Vincent Tan.
“He has always inspired managers and staff in all the companies within the group to give back to society whenever opportunities arise, so hosting this event is in line with that.”
Chung said Berjaya Langkawi Resort, which is nestled amid picturesque landscapes of the island, has previously carried out other community outreach programmes.
The event started at 6.30pm with Maghrib prayers led by religious leaders, followed by a buffet dinner.
SMK Tunku Putra special education senior assistant Zalila Ramli also had one of her special students recite a doa.
“We are thankful to Berjaya Resorts for hosting the children. It is not often that they get to have sumptuous meals at a hotel and this occasion will remain in their memories for a long time.
“I also wanted to ensure the event is memorable for the children, which is why I got one of my students to recite the doa.
“The songs and dances were performed by students from three schools – SMK Kedawang, SK Ulu Melaka and SK Penghulu Ahmad,” she said, adding that they were all excited to showcase their talents.
Earlier, Chung said the resort was honoured to host such a meaningful event for the special children.
“Witnessing the smiles on their faces and the sense of belonging they experienced truly touched our hearts.
“As a resort that is a huge part of the local community, we are committed to using our resources and facilities to create moments of joy and togetherness.”
He said even the staff were grateful for the opportunity to create a positive impact and are looking forward to continuing efforts to support those in need.
Chung said as Langkawi’s premier hospitality destination, Berjaya Hotels and Resorts will continue to spearhead initiatives that embody compassion, inclusivity and solidarity with the local community.
