KUANTAN: It was a memorable occasion for 100 poor students and orphans here when they received school bags and cash from Lembaga Tabung Haji on Wednesday.

They also received goodies and RM270 each from Tengku Mahkota of Pahang Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah at a breaking of fast at a hotel here on Tuesday.

"I'm so happy I could shake hands with Tengku Mahkota," said Ahmad Rushdi Abdul Rashid.

The Year Two pupil of SK Permatang Badak said it was his first experience having a meal at a hotel.

Haziq Hisham, 7, said he was surprised to find the school bag filled with stationery.
"I will study hard as I want to send my parents to perform the Haj," said the only child of a fisherman.

Tengku Abdullah lauded Tabung Haji for its campaign in encouraging the people, including the younger generation, to save.

"It's our duty to encourage our children to save, including through the Tabung Haji account. This good habit should be nurtured when our children are still young so they will save throughout their life," said Tengku Abdullah, who also launched the Tabung Haji TaHa club for schoolchildren in Pahang.

Those aged between 7 and 17 can join the club by opening a Tabung Haji account with a minimum RM2.