UMT DISTRIBUTES 2000 ASHURA PACKAGES, KEEPING THE TRADITION OF GOTONG RYONG ALIVE.
Kuala Nerus, 13 July 2025 – In conjunction with the arrival of the blessed month, Muharram 1447H, UMT through the Sultan Mahmud Islamic Center in collaboration with the UMT Administrators and Professionals Association (PERENTAS), UMT Women’s Club (MUTIARA), Senior Citizens Activity Center (PAWE), General Staff Union (KUAT) and UMT Academic Staff Welfare Association (PASAK) organized a special program “Jom Kacau Bubur Ashura”, a manifestation of tradition, spirituality and togetherness expressed in the form of gotong-royong cooking Ashura porridge on a large scale.
More special, this year saw 10 craters of Ashura porridge stirred simultaneously, symbolic of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the UMT Mosque. This combination makes the program not just an annual event, but a historic moment that records a meaningful moment in the journey of the first decade of the UMT mosque.
Head of the Sultan Mahmud Islamic Centre, Dr Kasyfullah bin Abd Kadir said, “This programme is not just about cooking. It is a symbol of brotherhood, sacrifice, fraternity and the continuity of traditional Islamic values brought together by campus residents and the surrounding community.”
From early morning, the atmosphere around the mosque was filled with the spirit of mutual cooperation, the aroma of spices and smiles etched on the faces of the participants who were all stirring the porridge, preparing the ingredients, and distributing it to the public.
Ashura porridge is not just a traditional food, it is a hereditary heritage full of spiritual and historical value. In Islam, the month of Muharram reminds people of the sacrifices of the prophets, especially the story of Prophet Noah (AS) after the landing of the ark, as well as various major events that teach the meaning of patience, gratitude and perseverance.
Through this program, the UMT Mosque not only enlivens the month of Muharram, but also reinforces the values of Islamic education and culture to the younger generation on campus. Participants had the opportunity to learn traditional recipes, delve into the wisdom behind the lessons of Muharram, and build a strong network of brotherhood.
This program is also part of a series of “A Decade of UMT Mosque” celebration programs, which will take place throughout this year. Ten years ago, the UMT Mosque was established as a center for worship, education and unity, and now continues to make history with high-impact programs like this.
“We believe that mosques are not just places of prayer, but arenas for uniting hearts, forming communities and instilling love among human beings under the protection of Allah’s mercy,” added Dr Kasyfullah.
“I never thought I would feel this close to someone I just met. We stirred porridge together, shared stories, laughed. It was very meaningful!” – Mrs. Kamariah, one of the representatives from the Kuala Nerus Senior Citizens Activity Centre, (PAWE).
“This is the first time I’ve seen 10 craters at once. Very impressive. Congratulations UMT Mosque!” – Syamil, one of the program participants.
Finally, in the afternoon, 2000 packs of Ashura porridge were distributed, not just to hungry stomachs, but to hearts that wanted to be appreciated, united, and remembered. Every spoon stirred becomes a symbol of shared love, and every container distributed becomes a sign of a mosque’s love for its campus community.
The UMT Mosque does not just serve porridge but also provides experiences, memories and hope for a closer and more Islamic community.
Provided By:
Research, Development and Networking Section,
Sultan Mahmud Islmaic Centre, UMT
Date: 13rd July 2025
