Community spirit shines on
The Temerloh Rotary Club has contributed in various ways over the years, including organising fundraising campaigns and charity sales for the benefit of the needy and less fortunate.
Club vice-president Datuk Hiang A Li said many community-related programmes were still being carried out for the betterment of society.
'Despite the trying times and sluggish economy, we have no intention to slow down.
'We hope to be able to maintain our initiatives with the generous support of the public and private sector,' he said, noting a drop in sponsorships and contributions from regular donors.
Earlier this year, the club held its annual Back to School programme, during which uniforms, socks and schoolbags were donated to poor families, especially Orang Asli pupils.
'We also organise blood donation drives to help replenish the government's blood bank.
'Orang Asli residents in remote areas also benefit from our clean piped water project supported by our affiliates and private companies,' he said.
Hiang also said these projects could help transform, uplift and improve the quality of life for villagers.
During major floods several years ago, affected villagers in Temerloh and Mentakab received assistance such as new furniture and electrical appliances to ease their burden.
'We have been actively assisting people for over four decades. Despite facing difficulties, our members will continue to provide humanitarian services, strengthen goodwill and harmony among the people,' he added.
Driven to help: Hiang (left) and Chew (centre) are dedicated to supporting those in need through their NGOs, while Lam's company advocates for youth awareness in sex education.
Temerloh Dancing Association president Datuk Seiko Chew Kim Pong said besides promoting dancing and singing as pastimes, they also organise community-related activities regularly.
'For example, we will visit old folks and children's homes, sing and perform dances to cheer them up. Very often, these residents are feeling lonely, need some company and a listening ear.
'Allowing them to share their thoughts and assuring them that they are not forgotten is one way to keep them happy,' he said, adding that respect and care for the elderly should be instilled among the young.
Chew said members also organise small-scale fundraising, such as selling handmade souvenirs and baking cakes to raise money for welfare programmes.
He said besides festive seasons, on some weekends, they would cook simple meals to share with the residents and help clean the premises.
Separately, Care Latex founder Bonn Lam Chee Fong said the company is actively involved in corporate social responsibility initiatives, particularly in public health.
'Our campaigns often focus on HIV prevention, especially among youth, and promoting safe sex education, including to vulnerable groups like refugees.
'We also partnered with organisations such as the Malaysian AIDS Council (MAC) and engaged in various community-based programmes to raise awareness on proper family planning as well as prevention of sexually transmitted diseases,' he said.
Lam cited a recent collaboration with the Pahang Health Department to support the government in meeting the target under the National Strategic Plan for Ending AIDS 2016-2030, targeting zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths.
Data shared by the MAC revealed a worrying trend – 44% of those infected with HIV in the country are youths aged between 20 and 29, and most new infections involve school leavers and students from institutions of higher learning.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni had revealed that 222 cases of university students infected with HIV were reported last year.
Meanwhile, the Star Golden Hearts Award (SGHA) returns for the 11th edition to honour everyday Malaysians whose compassion and selflessness have made a lasting impact on others.
With McDonald's Malaysia as the new strategic partner, SGHA is poised to broaden its reach and deepen its impact nationwide.
This year also marks the debut of the McDonald's Caring Hearts Award – a special recognition honouring individuals or grassroots groups whose heartfelt acts of kindness have uplifted lives in profound and lasting ways.
Since its inception in 2015, SGHA has honoured over 100 individuals and organisations whose efforts have inspired action, transformed lives and strengthened communities nationwide.
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