NST Online: StreetsJohor
NST Online: StreetsJohor |
| Posted: 07 Sep 2011 10:59 AM PDT 2011/09/07 The Breast Cancer Support Group of Johor Baru successfully raised funds for its new building costing RM550,000 THE Breast Cancer Support Group of Johor Baru recently feted more than 300 sponsors and donors at its charity dinner at the Grand Straits Garden in Johor Baru. The dinner themed "Give The Gift of Hope", raised RM250,000 to build a new centre for cancer patients and survivors in the state.
"Breast cancer survivors and patients have to undergo tough challenges in their fight for recovery from the disease," she said. She said the group gives hope and morale support to survivors and patients.
The guests of honour were Johor Baru MP Datuk Seri Shahrir Samad and Tunku Shahariah Tuanku Abdul Rahman, the daughter of former Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman. At the dinner, Shahrir also presented a mock cheque for RM360,000 to Boo for the building fund.
The idea to set up a building fund was mooted by Boo. Shahrir said he supported the group's cause in their drive to boost morale and provide counselling to women suffering from breast cancer. "I'm impressed with the commitment and efforts of the group. "Johor Baru will become a better place to live if everyone emulates their commitment and efforts in other charity works," he said. At the dinner, guests observed a minute of silence for those who succumbed to their cancer. A procession down the ballroom aisle by a group of cancer survivors holding lit candles accompanied by their children was held at the dinner. Every table too had lit candles to mark the significance of hope for cancer patients and survivors. A three-piece Filipino band serenaded the audience with some oldies as far back as the 1950s. Chinese, English, Filipino and Malay numbers got the audience dancing and in a festive mood. A local artiste also belted out Chinese favourites. A lucky draw and an auction were also held. Items such as handmade comforters, handbags and flowers were some of the things that were auctioned off. A guest donated RM1,000 for a Chinese sentimental number delivered by a Breast Cancer Support Group member. Those who wish to contribute to the group and its cause can call Boo at 07-335 7211 or email to bcsgjb04@hotmail.com. |
| Tourists drawn to tranquil village Posted: 07 Sep 2011 09:12 AM PDT 2011/09/07 THE name of my village is Kampung Sarang Buaya (crocodile's nest village). It is true that crocodiles were commonly spotted sunning themselves on the banks of Sungai Sarang Buaya decades ago. In the last 20 years, three villagers had been killed by crocodiles in the river. A child named Kamariah was taking a bath when she was dragged into the river. Before her, two other villagers were also killed, and another injured was by crocodiles.
Today, it is not easy to spot crocodiles anymore, except the crocodile statue near the entrance to our village in Jalan Batu Pahat-Muar, which has become a landmark. Our village is one of several in Johor which offers homestay accommodation, complete with eco-tourism activities and agro-tourism products.
The programme generates income for the families but it is also an opportunity for visitors to experience life in a village. Kampung Sarang Buaya has about 3,000 residents.
The Chinese live in housing estates in the Jalan Batu Pahat-Muar trunk road, while the Malays reside in the village near the Batu Pahat-Muar border. The village is surrounded by oil palm and rubber plantations. In recent years, the Johor Tourism Department has realised its tourism potential. The scenic landscape of the paddy fields in our village has put us on the state tourism map in 2008. Apart from paddy fields, tourists also come to visit our hot spring at Sungai Gersek, pineapple and tropical fruit farms, tap rubber trees, take a river cruise, try their hand at tapping rubber, and explore the mangrove swamp. There are handicraft and cottage industries making decorative items from coconut shells and traditional snacks, among others. Palm sugar processing is another highlight of the homestay programme for the visitors. Put it simply, they like the traditional way of life in the village, and enjoy the Malay dances and music. I am a retired farmer. I was appointed the village head in 1998. I am also the chairman of the Kampung Sungai Buaya Homestay Programme. I hope the authorities will help to upgrade our rural roads and provide facilities such as public toilets for the convenience of tourists. Yusof Mohd Lip, 67, has four children and eight grandchildren. He is the chairman of Kampung Sarang Buaya mosque and Village Rukun Tetangga Sector. Interview by Sim Bak Heng |
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