IPOH: Approximately 1,000 descendants of Dukut Maharajo and Halijah Awang gathered in Kampung Kepayang for Hari Raya Aidilfitri on Wednesday (April 10), coming from various parts of Malaysia and around the world. Visitors from countries like the United States, Britain, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia also participated in the event.
This biennial gathering has been a tradition since 1984, with the exception of 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This year’s gathering, which marks the 20th reunion, saw a significant turnout despite the challenges faced over the past years.
One of the distinguished guests at the event was Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu, the Bersatu deputy president and a fourth-generation member of the clan. He attended the gathering with his wife, Datin Seri Dr Nomee Ashikin Mohammed Radzi.
Ahmad Faizal highlighted the historical significance of the village, mentioning that Halijah’s father was one of the village’s founders. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining strong family ties through such gatherings.
At the event held at Mokhtar Mahmud’s house, an 88-year-old third-generation member of the clan, Ahmad Faizal expressed the growth of the clan from the early generations to the present seventh generation.
He stressed the continuity of the tradition, stating that such gatherings should not be discontinued. He pointed out the significance of these events in connecting individuals who may not be aware of their shared heritage as part of the same clan.
Asyaaf Syahmie Hasri, a fifth-generation descendant and part of the organizing team for this year’s gathering, shared insights about the clan’s history. He mentioned that Dukut, the clan’s ancestor, migrated from Sumatra, Indonesia to Malaya in 1880 along with his brother, where they practiced the craft of making songkoks.
Asyaaf further narrated Dukut’s religious influence in the community, with his preaching activities at Masjid India Muslim and eventual marriage to Halijah, the daughter of an imam. The couple had eight children and eventually settled in Kampung Kepayang, with the clans now extending to the eighth generation.
Asyaaf highlighted the meticulous planning required for the event’s success, mentioning the coordination of food arrangements for the reunion. Families contributed to the potluck-style meals shared during the gathering, emphasizing the communal spirit and collaboration among the clan members.
