Students happily displaying their new backpacks at this year’s launch of the RMHC Malaysia Back-to-School Pack Programme, aimed at supporting 10,000 underprivileged children nationwide. — SHAARI CHEMAT/The Star
THE Dewan Semai Bakti Felda Pasir Besar in Negri Sembilan was buzzing with excitement as primary school students eagerly waited to get their hands on their back-to-school packs. This marks the continuation of Ronald McDonald House Charities Malaysia’s (RMHC Malaysia) Back-to-School Pack Programme this year, aimed at uplifting children from underprivileged families nationwide.
RMHC Malaysia’s educational outreach provides essential school supplies to children, especially those stepping into primary school for the first time.
This year’s initiative, which was launched at a ceremony in Felda Pasir Besar, targets to distribute 10,000 packs with a budget allocation of RM1mil.The programme will be rolled out in stages, ensuring that all packs reach recipients before the school session commences in March 2025.
Support for families
RMHC Malaysia president Datuk Azmir Jaafar emphasised the programme’s role in alleviating the financial burdens of low-income families.
“Through this programme, we not only alleviate the financial strain on parents but also inspire young children to embrace learning with enthusiasm.
“We hope to foster a generation of successful individuals who will contribute positively to society,” he said.
Since its inception in 2017, the programme has invested over RM10mil, touching the lives of nearly 200,000 schoolchildren across the nation.
This year, Yayasan Jaafar Ahmad, founded by Datuk Azmir Jaafar and his family, has partnered with RMHC Malaysia to provide Back-to-School Packs to 350 students in the Tampin district, benefitting students from 11 primary schools and four Tabika KEMAS preschools.
This collaboration highlights the family’s commitment to the community, with a total of 1,000 students in the state of Negri Sembilan to benefit from it.
“As natives of Negri Sembilan, my family and I have always been committed to give back to our birthplace and the community here.
“Our contribution is part of our broader effort to ensure that children in need have access to quality education and the opportunities it brings,” said Yayasan Jaafar Ahmad advisor Zainudin Jaafar.
Nurul Aida Abdul, a mother of three, expressed her gratitude, saying, “With two of my children studying at SK Felda Pasir Besar and my youngest only five years old, the back-to-school pack significantly eases our family’s financial burden.”
Celebrating milestones
RMHC recently celebrated its 50th global anniversary, marking decades of impactful work for children and families worldwide.
In Malaysia, RMHC has been operational for 34 years, steadfast in its mission to support children’s well-being through health and education initiatives.
During his speech, RMHC Malaysia general manager Nasri Nordin shed light on the programme’s impact.
“The Back-to-School Pack Programme is eagerly anticipated by children each year. It brings joy and motivation, encouraging them to attend school and engage in their studies.“This year, our goal is to reach 10,000 preschool children nationwide, with a focused effort in states like Negri Sembilan,” he explained.
RMHC Malaysia’s collaborative approach, working with school representatives and local organisations, ensures that the packs reach those who need them most.
This year, Mydin will facilitate distribution across Malaysia, leveraging its extensive network to ensure timely delivery.
Datuk Azmir Jaafar also highlighted the broader involvement of Yayasan Jaafar Ahmad in educational initiatives.
“Our foundation has been supporting RMHC Malaysia since 2017, contributing significantly to children’s welfare in Negri Sembilan.
“Beyond the Back-to-School Pack Programme, we have been actively enhancing educational facilities, donating vital learning equipment and supporting community welfare initiatives,” he said.
Overall, Yayasan Jaafar Ahmad’s contributions, amounting to nearly RM600,000 through RMHC Malaysia, reflect a deep commitment to nurturing future generations. This includes sponsoring iftar meals, providing daily necessities and establishing the Ronald McDonald Sensory Room in McDonald’s Tampin, which offers specialised therapy services to the community.
By investing in the education of underprivileged children, these efforts are paving the way for a brighter future for all, ensuring that no child is left behind in their pursuit of learning and success.
