Breaking down barriers on leprosy at Valley of Hope

The visitors listening to a guide talking about the leprosy settlement during a tour of Valley of Hope.

WITH the aim of breaking down stereotypes and fostering a society that recognises and values the dignity and self-worth of every individual, Great Heart Charity Association (GHCA) organised a visit to the Valley of Hope in Sungai Buloh, Selangor, with 22 children from GHCA’s Klang centre.

The initiative sought to expose the youngsters to the realities of leprosy.

Guided by a team of 11 volunteers, the visit was designed to introduce both the children and GHCA’s volunteers to the history of Valley of Hope, which was once a chalet that evolved into a leprosy settlement in the 1930s.

Care & Share Society, an NGO run entirely by volunteers, currently manages Valley of Hope with a commitment to preserving the settlement’s history as well as eradicating prejudice and discrimination associated with the disease.

“The essence of our mission lies in breaking down barriers and promoting a society where every individual is seen and valued for their inherent worth.

“This visit to Valley of Hope attests to our commitment to fostering compassion and understanding,” said Great Heart Charity Association managing director Yuen Juin Hoe.

The Valley of Hope Story Gallery and Art Gallery provided a poignant backdrop for the visit, offering visitors insights into the history, culture and heritage of its community.

The visit not only served as an opportunity for cultural exchange and understanding but also aimed to foster compassion and awareness in the younger generation.