Abbas highlights unity, local issues as Selangor MB unveils 100-container Gaza aid effort
SERI KEMBANGAN: Community leader Abbas Azmi took centre stage in highlighting grassroots concerns and unity at the Aidilfitri 2026 celebration in Putra Permai, as Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari revealed the state’s continued humanitarian support for Gaza, including nearly 100 containers of aid sent since 2024.
Speaking at the event held at Dewan Serbaguna MBSA, Adun Seri Serdang, Abbas underscored the strong multiracial harmony in the area, describing the gathering as a reflection of cohesion among residents in the mixed Malay-Chinese neighbourhood, which has about 22,000 voters.
“Despite the rain earlier, the turnout was very encouraging. We estimate close to 3,000 attendees tonight, exceeding our initial preparations for 2,500 guests,” he said, noting the event’s success in fostering closer ties between the community and local leaders.
Abbas also drew attention to pressing local issues, particularly traffic congestion in Putra Permai and Equine Park, which continues to affect daily life for residents.
He said several infrastructure projects have been approved to address the problem, including the construction of two flyovers near the commercial area fronting Giant, with an estimated cost of RM280 million under the supervision of the Public Works Department (JKR).
“The project is currently in the consultation phase and is expected to begin physical construction by the end of 2027,” he said.
In addition, Abbas noted that a new connecting road between Kota Perdana and surrounding areas has been approved at a cost of RM22 million, while proposals such as a U-turn route near the MRT station are under discussion and expected to be finalised within six months.
“These initiatives, collectively worth tens of millions of ringgit, are part of ongoing efforts to ease traffic congestion in the area,” he added.
Meanwhile, Amirudin, in his speech, emphasised the importance of stability, unity and government preparedness in navigating global uncertainties.
He revealed that he had recently completed humanitarian missions to Rafah and Barcelona to assist Palestinians, with Selangor delivering nearly 100 containers of aid through collaboration with government agencies and NGOs.
“Recently, in conjunction with Ramadan and Aidilfitri, we also sent about 40,000 cans of food to the people of Gaza as a sign of solidarity,” he said.
Amirudin also warned that Malaysians could face rising prices in the coming months due to global conflicts affecting oil and gas supply routes, particularly strategic chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz.
However, he assured that both federal and state governments have taken early measures to mitigate the impact, noting that Malaysia’s fuel supply remains stable due to effective management and targeted policies such as diesel subsidies.
As part of its preparations, the Selangor government has allocated an initial RM131 million package, which could increase to nearly RM200 million with contributions from state-linked companies, to cushion potential economic pressures.
“The government is not waiting for a crisis to happen. We are planning ahead based on data and projections to minimise the burden on the people,” he said, adding that long-term strategies include expanding public transport, improving energy efficiency and promoting sustainable lifestyles.
The event concluded on a warm and festive note, with attendees taking the opportunity to mingle and strengthen community bonds in a spirit of goodwill.