Malaysians have always been great at helping others regardless of our race, ethnicity, and religion.
Photo via UNHCR
One thing that Malaysians love to do is volunteering, and this comes in many different forms- like helping the environment, those who are underprivileged, and even teaching a class!
Donating your time, energy, and possibly resources can be rewarding for you and for those you are helping.
Here are some homegrown organisations that we think are truly awesome in improving the lives of Malaysians in need! Plus, these organisations do not take up much time and money, just a little bit of your attention and dedication.
1. Free Tree Society
Photo via Facebook (Free Tree Society Kuala Lumpur)
If you want to help out with nature, take some time to visit the Free Tree Society located in Kuala Lumpur.
Just like its name, they will give away free trees to the public during environmental days, and they will also welcome you to help them in planting seedlings and trees!
So if you’re one of those tree-huggers, why not give this one a try! Head over to their website and register yourself as a volunteer!
2. Second Chance Animal Society
Photo via Facebook (Second Chance Animal Society)
Love animals? Well, this place might be the one for you as this animal shelter in Hulu Langat hosts over 500 fur kids they believe deserve a second chance at life (we totally agree!)
The SCAS rescues and rehabilitates stray animals with their no-kill policy. The shelter is funded by public donations and is run by a team of committed volunteers. Check out their website here!
So what can you do there?
You can either help by cleaning and washing the pet kennels, clearing drains, tidying up the overall space of the compound or you could even give their dogs a scrub by shampooing and applying flea wash!
But make sure to make a booking with them at least 2 weeks in advance and bring an extra change of clothes, towel and your own lunch!
3. SUKA Society
Photo via Facebook (SUKA Society)
What does education mean to you?
For a child, education is all about discovering new things, developing their skills and making new friends.
SUKA Society is a children’s welfare NGO that advocates for and empowers children and the youth in Malaysia, and you could be a part of this in many ways.
You could volunteer to be a teacher at a refugee community-based learning centers, assist in creating child advocacy materials or you could even join them at the women and children government protection shelter to help trafficked survivors.
Volunteers can also choose to help with weekly activities for human-trafficking survivors, provide English training for Orang Asli teachers, and assist with public awareness campaigns, too!
If you feel like you want to be a part of this, you can fill up the forms here, and who knows, you might be the perfect one they’re looking for!
4. Teddy Mobile Clinic
Photo via Facebook (Teddy Mobile Clinic)
Dr. S. Madhusudhan and his dedicated team of volunteers at the Teddy Mobile Clinic helps the homeless and less fortunate along Jalan Hang Lekiu where they provide free medical treatment and care.
So if you’re a doctor, a nurse, or a medical personnel - you can volunteer with the Teddy Bear Doctor! You can check out their Facebook or Instagram for details.
5. Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)
Photo via Facebook (PAWS Animal Welfare Society, Petaling Jaya)
This non-profit animal shelter in Subang puts up unwanted animals for adoptions. Volunteers can come and spend time with any animal they want, and perform assigned activities such as cleaning the shelter area.
You are required to work independently because there will be minimal supervision and guidance during the volunteering activities.
Volunteers are welcome to help at any time during PAWS’ opening hours which are every Monday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. except Wednesday and Public Holidays.
You can check them out on their website for more details!
Volunteer work doesn’t only benefit the ones you’re helping, but is also a great way to spend your free time.
So, why not help out an organisation today? You can even go with your friends, or bring your family along to volunteer with you!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
