Kota Kinabalu: Junior Chamber International (JCI) Kota Kinabalu held its flagship Free Market community project at the Coalition Learning Centre, recently, to assist stateless children in Sabah.
In the free market, instead of spending money to purchase goods, individuals can take what they want for free.
They only need to say “Thank You” to receive the items.
In a statement, a JCI Kota Kinabalu (JCI KK) spokesperson said the objectives are to educate children on the importance of expressing gratitude and appreciating what they have, as well as not taking things for granted.
“This project is also a show of love and care for the stateless children and their families, while also improving their living conditions and giving them hope.
“Despite being only an NGO, JCI KK has impacted the needy community by donating groceries and essential items to more than 140 stateless children,” they said.
The project, aligned with the United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), includes four goals that are No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Quality Education and Peace, Justice and Strong Institution in order to cultivate moral education and create a peaceful and beautiful society.
It was held in collaboration with JCI KK’s international sisterhood chapter and friendship pact, JCI Manila (Philippines), JCI Dayuan (Taiwan) and JCI City (Singapore). It also involved JCI Luyang, JCI Tawau, JCI Lintas, and JCI Moyog.
Organising Chairperson, Vincent Shini Ho had met with Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kota Kinabalu, Rafail Walangitan to arrange the donations.
The donations were in the form of used clothes, books, toys, foods, pillows, plastic containers and cash.
“This project inspired private companies to join. They are Builders Emporium Sdn Bhd, QL Agrofood, Onaki Sdn Bhd, eNet Supply Sdn Bhd and Eurythmics Music and Art Centre whom all have made this event a success.
“Nothing beats seeing the children’s happy, smiling faces. Absolutely priceless. Coalition Learning Centre in Kinarut is cared by Dr. Kathryn Rivai who is also a two-time winner for the sustainable development awards.
“We believe this project can help to raise awareness of vulnerable groups, give them hope, and improve their living conditions.
“JCI KK focuses on four pillars of opportunities including Individual Development, Community, Business and Entrepreneurship, and International Relations.
“We welcome individuals aged 18 to 40 to join us in making a positive impact to the community,” they said.
For more information, contact 2023 JCI Kota Kinabalu President Benjamin at 014-573 9486 or Honorary Secretary Michelle at 014-225 6304.
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