UMPSA hosts Sustainable Inclusive Ecosystem Mission (MEiLESTARI 2024): Prosperous Family Carnival

KUANTAN, 7 November 2024 – Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) successfully organised the Sustainable Inclusive Ecosystem Mission (MEiLESTARI 2024): Prosperous Family Carnival in collaboration with the Family Cluster under the Pahang Women’s Policy and Action Plan 2022-2026 (DPTWP). 

The event was held recently at the Grand Darul Makmur Hotel, Kuantan.

The programme was officiated by Mazlina Mohamed@Mohamad Lazim, Head of the Women and Social Development Unit, who represented Yang Berhormat Dato' Sabariah Saidan, Pahang State Social Welfare, Women, and Family Development Exco.

MEiLESTARI 2024 aimed to achieve several key objectives, including providing participants with exposure to the concept of inclusive LESTARI families, equipping them with knowledge to address challenges in marriage, and sharing success stories to inspire stronger family bonds. 

The programme also focused on reducing divorce rates during the critical early years of marriage (one to five years) and strengthening the resilience of family institutions.

Mazlina Mohamed@Mohamad Lazim highlighted that prosperous families play a vital role in creating responsible and accountable members of society. 

She emphasised that families caring for inclusive groups, particularly individuals with disabilities (OKU), face greater responsibilities, including sacrifices of time and finances.

“These individuals not only need moral support but also require assistance in terms of specific facilities and resources,” she said. 

She stressed that prosperous families are characterised by inclusivity, a strong support system, compassion, and love for family members in need.

“Adhering to the principle of ‘No One Left Behind,’ we must continue supporting efforts to strengthen family institutions and ensure equal opportunities for inclusive groups,” she added.

Dr Munira Abd Razak, Director of the OKU UMPSA (OkUMPSA) Service Unit and Head of the MEiLESTARI 2024 Project, emphasised that family sustainability is a critical pillar for building a harmonious and sustainable society. 

She noted that family support is a vital source of strength for the OKU community, enabling them to overcome challenges and realise their full potential.

“For the OKU group, family support serves as a source of motivation, self-confidence, and inspiration beyond just basic needs,” she said. 

She reiterated UMPSA’s commitment to sustainable development by ensuring equal access to quality education for all segments of society, including the disabled.

Throughout the programme, participants attended a forum titled ‘Prosperous Family Tips: Pacat Membawa Berkat.’ The event also included the launch of the Prosperous Family Module, the Inclusive Prosperous Family Calendar, and the 2024 World Disabled People’s Month (fOKUs) Celebration Festival. 

Appreciation awards were presented to recipients across 14 categories.

The carnival attracted participation from the Pahang State Family Cluster committee, government agencies, and local communities. Guests enjoyed performances by Gudang Karya Kopratasa, a photography exhibition themed ‘Prosperous Family’, and interactive activities such as batik painting.

By: Naqiah Puaad, Centre for Corporate Communications

Translation by: Aminatul Nor Mohamed Said, UMPSA Career Centre (UMPSACC)