SOOK: Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, said Agrobank will establish another branch in Pekan Sook in the third quarter of this year.
He believes that with the presence of an Agrobank branch here, it will further strengthen the local economy as well as support his efforts to produce more local entrepreneurs in line with the various development projects that are being vigorously implemented in the district.
Arthur, who is also Pensiangan MP, said this when officiating the Iftar Ramadan 2025 organised by Agrobank at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Sook which was attended by 700 people.
He said organising the Iftar Ramadan is a platform to strengthen ties of kinship and strengthen unity among the community.
“This is the spirit that needs to be nurtured and cultivated in a multi-racial and multi-religious country,” he said.
Arthur added that the event is a reflection of the bank aspirations as not only an institution that provides financial solutions to the farming community, but is also committed to organising initiatives that celebrate and provide social benefits to the local community.
In addition, he said the initiative also drives community development and education in improving the well-being of life.
Meanwhile, Agrobank’s Risk Chief Officer, Hussien Mullar, representing Agrobank’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah Raja Hussin, said the event was held to bring joy to the local community.
The event is not just about sharing the sustenance and blessings of Ramadan but also a platform to strengthen brotherhood among Muslims, he said.
The bank also distributed zakat worth RM30,000 which benefited 300 asnaf in Pensiangan.
At the same event, school aid worth RM19,000 including school bags, water bottles and coloured pencils were distributed to 300 students.
The initiative reflects the bank’s continued commitment in supporting educational development and easing the financial burden of families in need, especially for school needs and preparations for Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
Also present, Agrobank Sabah Regional Director, Haji Ridwan Tenriranran, District Police Chief, Supt Yampil Anak Garai, District Education Officert, Johari Jaibet Saibin, SooK Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department (Jheains) Officer, Haslee Sairin as well as local leaders.
