Ipoh, Malaysia | Asia Samachar | 12 June 2015
Wadda Gurdwaras Sahib Ipoh (WGSI), one of the larger gurdwaras in the state of Perak, received a special grant of RM200,000 from the Federal Government to undertake much needed renovation, especially for the darbar sahib (main prayer hall), which is estimated to cost RM400,000.
Minister of Finance II special officer Suhaimi Din presented the cheque to WGSI committee president Amarjit Singh Gill in a special ceremony at the gurdwara today.
“This contribution has come in a most timely manner as it is very necessary for us to do the upgrading of the Main Darbar Sahib.
“As some may not be aware, the current structure is 35 years old and due to the Malaysian climate with the rain and shine, there has been issues with the roof that causes leaking and other inconveniences,” Amarjit told Asia Samachar in an email.
Minister of Finance II is Ahmad Husni Mohamad Hanadzlah, who is also a Member of Parliament for Tambun, Perak.
On detailed renovation plans, Amarjit said it would include changing the entire ceiling, replacing the carpet of the darbar sahib, upgrading the main palki and ‘sachkand sahib’ [room where the Sri Guru Granth Sahib is placed after semaphti].
Total upgrading works is expected to cost RM400,000, he added.
Besides the upgrade works, he said the gurdwara have also started a programme to support families with either financial aid or food ration, particularly to the poor families.
In a separate statement, Amarjit said the gurdwara have built a new kitchen, a new air-conditioned hall, a library, fixed interlocking bricks throughout the compound and landscaping.
“Now they are in the process of renovating and upgrading the Sikh crematorium, the only crematorium for Sikhs in Ipoh and plan to purchase a new hearse as the current one is already very old,” it added.
Amarjit is also the secretary general of Malaysia National Sikhs Movement (GerakSikh).
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