PERKIM Honors the Retirement of Finance Administrative Officer Hamidah Ismail
by: SAFIYYA NUR SAKEENA SALLEHUDDIN
KUALA LUMPUR, 20 December 2024 – Over 40 staff members from the Malaysian Islamic Welfare Organization (PERKIM) gathered at its headquarters to celebrate the retirement of Hamidah Ismail, PERKIM’s Finance Administrative Officer. Held at the Level 1 Hall, PERKIM Building, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, the event honored Hamidah’s 38 years of dedication and contributions.
Attendees included representatives from PERKIM’s Headquarters, Federal Territory Division, International Islamic Dakwah Institute (IDIP-KL), and the Stroke Community Rehabilitation Center (SCORE).
In her farewell speech, Hamidah shared her journey with PERKIM, recounting how she first joined in 1986 as a typist and clerk with a starting salary of RM325. Despite humble beginnings, her passion for finance and accounting drove her to excel, from manual bookkeeping to implementing computerized systems. Over the years, she served under three Presidents and eight Honorary Secretaries-General, earning promotions and leaving a lasting impact on PERKIM’s financial operations.
Hamidah’s connection to Islam and dakwah was deeply personal, shaped by her family’s close ties to converts. Her father, who often taught new Muslims, inspired her dedication to the cause. She fondly recalled her experiences traveling to remote areas, including Sabah’s interiors, spreading Islamic teachings, and even witnessing conversions firsthand.
“I treasure every moment in PERKIM, from the friendships built to the opportunities to contribute to dakwah across Malaysia. Now, after nearly four decades, it’s time for me to step aside for the younger generation,” she said, encouraging staff to work with sincerity and foster a family-like bond for greater blessings.
PERKIM’s Honorary Secretary-General, YBhg Tan Sri Dr. Mohd Yusof Noor, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for Hamidah’s invaluable service. He acknowledged her significant role in shaping PERKIM’s financial policies and hoped she would continue supporting the organization even after retirement.
The event concluded with a token of appreciation from Dr. Yusof Noor, accompanied by YBhg Dato’ Abdul Hanif Harun, PERKIM’s Honorary Treasurer, followed by a farewell luncheon.
This memorable celebration highlighted Hamidah’s remarkable career and unwavering dedication, leaving a legacy of commitment and compassion for future generations.
Also present were PERKIM’s Deputy Honorary Secretary-General, YBhg Datuk Mohamad Nordin Ibrahim; Asset and Development Director, YBhg Dato’ Haji Ahmad Mustafa; Education and Operations Development Director, YBhg Dr. Suariza @ Hidayah Muhammad; Director of IDIP-KL, Tuan Haji Mamat Che Chik; and PERKIM Executive Secretary, Zulkefli Arifin.
Nur Syahirah Musa hosted the retirement ceremony for Hamidah Ismail.
Muhammad Jais Mariappan Abdullah led the opening prayer for the event.
PERKIM staff and leaders joined in the prayer led by Muhammad Jais.
Hamidah shared stories and experiences from her 38 years of service with PERKIM National.
She reminisced about her many memorable moments, including spreading dakwah in Sabah’s remote areas.
Dr. Yusof Noor expressed his deepest appreciation and gratitude for Hamidah’s contributions to PERKIM.
Dr. Yusof Noor and Dato’ Abdul Hanif Harun jointly presented a cash token to Hamidah.
They also presented a retirement gift to Hamidah Ismail.
Dr. Fatimah Abdullah, representing SCORE, gave Hamidah a bouquet of flowers.
PERKIM National and PERKIM Federal Territory staff took the opportunity to take group photos with Hamidah.
PERKIM staff enjoyed the meal provided.
They savored dishes such as laksa, cake, and traditional kuih.
