Chukai: Three Orang Asli couples, including those who recently embraced Islam, were thrilled to be celebrated at a ceremony in Kampung Sungai Pergam here today. Khairul Anuar, 33, and his partner Nurul Izzatie Andol, 25; Abby Shahril Soki, 27, and partner Nurul Nadhira Abdullah, 18; as well as Mohammad Khairul Nizam Rosman, 23, and partner Rosnah Misa, had their solemnisation ceremonies this morning at the Orang Asli Community Wedding Ceremony held at the Kampung Sungai Pergam Community Hall here.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ceremony was organised by the Terengganu Pertubuhan Kebajikan Islam Malaysia (Perkim), the Terengganu Orang Asli Development Department (JAKOA) and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM). The three couples, including Rosnah and Nurul Izzatie who embraced Islam last November, were married by the marriage registrar from the Kemaman Religious Office, Mohamad Faizu Zakaria, at the An Nur surau in the village.

One of the bridegrooms, Mohd Khairul Nizam, expressed his happiness about the festive atmosphere of the wedding, although he felt nervous about the responsibilities ahead as his wife, Rosnah, who is from Rompin, Pahang, had only recently converted to Islam. He stated his intention to guide his wife to become a good Muslim, teaching her to pray and fast.

Another groom, Khairul, shared that he met his wife, Nurul Izzatie, from Pos Belatim, Gua Musang, Kelantan, last year through Facebook. He expressed gratitude that their introduction on social media led to marriage and hoped for a happy and lasting union.

Meanwhile, Perkim Terengganu chairman Prof. Dr. Ramle Abdullah mentioned that the programme was organised to help Orang Asli Muslim communities register legally, while ensuring their marriages comply with the law. The initiative also aims to assist less capable teenage couples to marry without incurring high wedding costs and expenses.

He further noted that in collaboration with the Terengganu Religious Affairs Department (JHEAT), the department would guide the two newly converted partners on managing their families in accordance with Islamic teachings. Community mobilisers and religious teachers appointed by JHEAT and Perkim would support these newlyweds in their journey.