Project RiseUp: Empowering underprivileged children

Eight MBA students from the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Graduate School of Business (UKM GSB) embarked on a transformative Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project named “Project RiseUp.”

Their mission was to empower the underprivileged children of Pusat Kebajikan Rukaiyah, a home for 42 children in Kajang, through sustainable initiatives. Under the guidance of Professor Wan Mohd Hirwani Wan Hussain, these students aimed to make a positive impact on the lives of these young individuals.

Empowering through donations

Running from 8 July to 10 September, Project RiseUp achieved a significant milestone by successfully raising RM27,000 in donations. This crucial funding was put to admirable use, as it allowed for the establishment of a hydroponic farm on the premises of Pusat Kebajikan Rukaiyah, the home for 42 underprivileged children in Kajang.

The hydroponic farm served a dual purpose: it provided a sustainable source of fresh and nutritious produce for the residents while also imparting valuable agricultural skills.

Under the guidance of professionals, the children learned how to cultivate various vegetables, including pak choy, Chinese cabbage, and spinach.

This hands-on experience not only contributed to the home’s self-sufficiency in terms of food but also equipped the children with essential agricultural knowledge, potentially opening doors to future opportunities. This significant step towards sustainability marked the beginning of Project RiseUp’s mission to empower these young lives.

Fostering creativity and skills

In addition to the hydroponic farm, MBA students conducted workshops for the children. These workshops focused on creating art, including crafting multicolored keychains and acrylic-painted tote bags. Such initiatives not only empowered the children to express themselves creatively but also equipped them with potential income-generating skills for the future.

Siti Eshah Binti Din, Manager of Pusat Kebajikan Rukaiyah, expressed excitement about this collaboration and the positive impact on the children. She noted that the hydroponic farm was thriving, and the children were enthusiastic about learning new skills.

Shawn Toh Kwee Ing, Team Leader of Project RiseUp, highlighted the importance of introducing sustainable initiatives to enhance self-sufficiency among the residents. The team aspires to inspire others to replicate such efforts, fostering a more inclusive society.

Project RiseUp’s success was made possible through the generous support of donors, including Tenaga Nasional Berhad, ViewQwest Sdn Bhd, Achievz Trading, and Environmental Science (M) Sdn. Bhd. The initiative also extended to caretakers, who had the opportunity to learn digital marketing skills, ensuring a sustainable livelihood.

The first harvest of fresh produce from the hydroponic farm is expected in mid-September. These efforts not only improve the quality of life for underprivileged children but also pave the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future.

Project RiseUp, inspired by the principles of continuous improvement, serves as a model for uplifting the less fortunate, particularly those in the B40 demographics. The initiative showcases the positive impact that collaborative and sustainable projects can have on communities in need.