10,000 fast for 30 Hours to fight hunger

In an inspiring display of solidarity and compassion, approximately 10,000 Malaysians voluntarily abstained from food for 30 hours to raise funds for marginalized communities in need. This remarkable initiative, known as the World Vision Malaysia 30-Hour Famine campaign, aimed to ensure that those in underserved communities do not go hungry.

The participants, hailing from diverse backgrounds across the nation, successfully raised nearly RM700,000 of their RM1.6 million target to date. The funds collected will be directed towards supporting World Vision’s community development efforts in critical areas such as Health & Nutrition, Livelihoods, and Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH) in countries including Malaysia, Cambodia, DR Congo, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Additionally, local beneficiaries such as SUKA Society and Fugee School will also receive support.

The culminating event of this remarkable fast took place during the final four hours at the Cheras North International Convention Centre (CNICC) in Kuala Lumpur today. More than 2,000 of the dedicated participants gathered for this momentous “Countdown.”

Victor Wong encourages continued support for those in need

Renowned singer-songwriter Victor Wong, who serves as the 30-Hour Famine Ambassador for 2023, joined the participants in their noble endeavor. Victor Wong is not only an accomplished artist but also an ardent advocate for children’s and youth rights, and humanitarian causes.

Reflecting on his role, Wong stated, “It’s been an incredible privilege to be the 30-Hour Famine Ambassador. It’s a responsibility I’m proud to bear as it has given me the opportunity to witness the collective power of humanity – all of us from all walks of life coming together to shape a world with love and compassion. I want to encourage each of us to continue helping those in need.”

Terry Leong, CEO of World Vision Malaysia, expressed his gratitude for the enduring support of the campaign over the years, noting that the 30-Hour Famine is not just about fundraising but also about raising awareness. He emphasized that the campaign seeks to provide participants with a deeper understanding of the multifaceted issues surrounding hunger and poverty.

“The issues related to hunger and poverty are complex. They cut across socio-economic and cultural divides and are not as clear-cut as we would like to think. Through the 30-Hour Famine, we hope to plant the seed for our participants to delve deeper into the intricate issues related to the subject and ‘Strike Out Hunger’ together,” Leong added.

Impacting lives across borders

World Vision Malaysia’s 30-Hour Famine campaign received strong support from various partners and sponsors, including founding partner Sin Chew Daily, media partners MY, MELODY, and GOXUAN, as well as online media partner XUAN. BE International served as the premium sponsor, while HELP University and SEIKO were principal sponsors. The Gardens – A St. Giles Signature Hotel & Residences extended their support as the official hotel sponsor, and major sponsors included V-SOY, Hock Moon Hiong, Mighty White, Ophelia Global, and Urban Hygienist.

For those who wish to contribute to the 30-Hour Famine and support its mission, donations can still be made by visiting the campaign’s official website at https://30hourfamine.worldvision.com.my/.