After 30 years of service, Butterworth gurdwara seeks new hearse

By Asia Samachar  | Malaysia |

For three decades, the hearse operated by Gurdwara Sahib Butterworth (GSB) has served Sikh families across northern Malaysia on their loved ones’ final journeys.

Now, age has caught up with the vehicle. With the hearse increasingly difficult to maintain and even essential replacement parts no longer available, the gurdwara has launched an appeal to raise RM140,000 for a new Toyota Hiace.

“The current hearse is 30 years old. The carburetor is spoiled and we cannot get a proper replacement part. It’s high time to replace it,” GSB hearse manager Harbans Singh, a volunteer at the gurdwara in the city centre of Seberang Perai, Penang, told Asia Samachar.

So far, RM20,000 has been raised towards the estimated cost of the new vehicle.

The GSB hearse serves Sikh communities across a wide area in northern Malaysia, covering Parit Buntar, Kulim, Perai, Seberang Perai, Butterworth, Sungai Petani, Alor Setar and Kangar. The journey from Parit Buntar, Perak, to Kangar, Perlis, is about 250km.

A separate hearse serves the Sikh community on Penang island.

In its donation appeal, the gurdwara said the new vehicle would allow it to continue serving the community “with dignity, compassion, and respect during times of bereavement”.

“A hearse is an essential seva for the Sikh community, ensuring that our loved ones are accompanied on their final journey according to Sikh traditions,” the appeal said.

“As our community continues to grow, the need for a reliable and dedicated vehicle has become increasingly important.”

The gurdwara is appealing to the sangat and well-wishers for donations towards the purchase of the new hearse.

BANK DETAILS FOR CONTRIBUTIONS
Account Name: Pertubuhan Gurdwara Sahib Butterworth
Bank: CIMB Bank
Account Number: 8600 9440 81

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Harbans Singh (Hearse manager) 012-530 1622
Harjit Singh (GSB Hon. Secretary) 019-655 0402
Avtar Singh @ Ronaldo (GSB Hon. Treasurer) 016-455 5475

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