GOMBAK - Students at International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) were treated to a one-of-a-kind iftar (breaking of fast) coupled with an enlightening entrepreneurship workshop, thanks to the generosity of GM Klang Wholesale Centre.
The event, aptly named ‘Iftar Untuk Mu Mahasiswa Bersama GM Klang,’ was designed to nurture a sense of togetherness and encourage the student body's entrepreneurial spirit.
The programme kicked off with heartfelt remarks from GM Klang Brand Communication Senior Manager Norsuhaida Othman, who shared the inspiration for the initiative, focusing on the significance of sharing and community during the holy month.
"Hosting this event at IIUM, especially, holds great meaning for us as we aim to provide a touch of home for students spending Ramadan away from their families for the first time.
"Our collaboration with IIUM is a first of its kind for us, and we’re eager to engage with the vibrant community here, from students to faculty and administration," she said.
GM Klang also offered free iftar meals to the first 500 registered students, setting a welcoming tone for the event.
Contrary to initial announcements, IIUM's Promotion and Student Recruitment Office director Siti Aisyah Ibrahim later revealed that the sponsorship was extended to 700 students, highlighting the event's exceptional scale.
"Our goal is for this partnership to pave the way for students to explore entrepreneurship.
"We look forward to a continued relationship with GM Klang, where they can mentor our budding entrepreneurs," she said.
A highlight of the event was the bespoke knowledge-sharing session conducted by GM Klang’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) division, aimed at equipping interested students with the essentials of entrepreneurship.
The session offered insights and practical advice for starting a business, even on a modest scale.
Preacher (PU) Amin delivered a thought-provoking tazkirah, adding a spiritual element to the iftar.
The esteemed preacher, whose real name is Mohamad Amirul Amin Maula Lokman Hakim, spoke to the students as they awaited the maghrib call to prayer, marking the end of their fast.
The event also resonated well with the international student community.
Indonesian student Tafany Bawazier, from the Faculty of Economics, shared her appreciation for the programme.
"This is my first time participating in such an event, and I found it incredibly rewarding.
"It’s particularly meaningful for international students like me, offering a sense of community and the opportunity to make new friends, rather than breaking fast in isolation," she said.
‘Iftar Untuk Mu Mahasiswa Bersama GM Klang’ successfully melded spiritual reflection, community engagement, and entrepreneurial learning, making it a noteworthy and enriching experience for IIUM students during Ramadan.