'Geng Sumbu' builds raya arch with 3,000 oil lamps

BATU PAHAT: With Hari Raya Aidilfitri just around the corner, a group of youths in Kampung Baru Sri Gading got together to build an arch at the village entrance using 3,000 oil lamps.

Calling themselves 'Geng Sumbu' some 30 of them banded together to build the oil lamp gateway.

According to group leader Mohd Azam Isnin, the activity, which entered its third year, was usually held in the last week of Ramadan until Syawal 1.

"Apart from continuing a tradition, the activity also reflects the spirit of cooperation and unity among the residents of this village," he said when met by reporters here last night.

He said the lamp arch which is about 15 meters high, uses an average of 90 litres of diesel a day. Mohd Azam said the idea to use diesel to light the lamps was inspired by the Crystal Mosque in Terengganu.

Meanwhile, Parit Raja assemblywoman Raja Nor Rashidah Ramli said the effort by the youths was commendable and the tradition of installing diesel lamps in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri should be continued since it strengthens the spirit of togetherness among the kampung folks.

"This effort can also help enliven and brighten up the atmosphere in this village and hopefully it can be an example to others," she said.

-- BERNAMA