BANGI, September 12 – Malaysia once again became the host for the Inspire Programme as 21 volunteers from Canada gathered to take part in the international volunteer programme organised by Islamic Relief Canada (IR Canada) in collaboration with Islamic Relief Malaysia (IR Malaysia), held from 30 August to 8 September.
Since its introduction in Malaysia in 2018, this sixth edition has provided a platform for practical learning and cross-cultural exchange, while offering volunteers the opportunity to engage with local communities.
Throughout the programme, participants connected with 60 refugee students comprising 30 students from Refugee Intellectual Skills and Excellence (RISE) and 30 students from Al-Noor Enrichment School. Activities included interactive learning sessions, games, an educational trip to KidZania, and providing essential supplies. Volunteers also visited the students’ families and distributed food packs.
According to Inspire Malaysia Coordinator, Siti Noradilah Zainal, this year’s edition introduced participants to the Orang Asli community. Among the activities were visits to the Mah Meri Cultural Village in Pulau Carey and the distribution of 100 food packs to several Orang Asli villages.
“Despite the packed schedule, the volunteers remained fully committed. Their sincerity was clearly seen in their interactions with the children,” she said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Tarek Faid, Volunteer Abroad Manager of IR Canada, expressed his appreciation for the strong cooperation extended by IR Malaysia. “The children here are truly special. God willing, we hope this collaboration can continue in the future,” he said.
One of the volunteers, Seerat from Calgary, Canada, described the experience of engaging with refugees in Malaysia as extraordinary. “Seeing their resilience despite the many challenges they face has truly opened my eyes to the reality of their lives. It has made me more appreciative of God’s blessings,” she shared.
Apart from Malaysia, Inspire 2025 is also being held in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkiye, Kosovo, Albania, Makkah and Madinah, Indonesia, South Africa, and Morocco.
