GCS founder and chairman Dr Henry Pillai (centre) with founding partner Jasbeer Pillai (left) receiving the certificate of recognition from a Malaysia Book of Records representative.
A local non-governmental organisation (NGO) has made it into the Malaysia Book of Records for bringing together the “Most Number of Underprivi-leged Children in a Christmas celebration in Malaysia”.
Organised by Grace Commu-nity Services (GCS), “The Star of Christmas: No Child Left Behind” brought together 500 attendees, including 300 orphaned, homeless and refugee children from across the Klang Valley.
GCS chief executive officer Dr Christina Pillai said the initiative was born from the conviction that no child should feel forgotten during the festive season.
“These are children society often overlooks, children who rarely feel seen.
“Under the light of the Star of Christmas, they are no longer invisible.
“They are cherished, celebrated, and reminded that their lives matter,” she said.
The ballroom of a hotel in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, was transformed into a festive wonderland featuring activities such as face painting, balloon sculpting, interactive magic shows, festive photo booths and meet-and-greet sessions with Santa.
There were also surprise appearances by Chicky and Cheesy mascots from QSR Brands (M) Holdings Bhd, KFC and Pizza Hut, much to the delight of the children.
Frankie the Magician dazzling the children with his tricks and charm.
The children were also treated to meals, Christmas carols by Universiti Malaya Vocal Ensemble and cultural performances.
The children proudly showed off traditional attire alongside creatively constructed recycled Christmas outfits, and took part in group stage performances.
The event also saw the relaunch of two of the NGO’s long-standing cornerstone programmes: Birthright and Music for Life.
Established in 1999, Birthright serves as a sanctuary for unwed mothers, offering medical care, counselling and legal support.
Birthright has now relocated to a new facility in Petaling Jaya.
Music for Life, founded in 2005, provides underprivileged children access to music education and creative development, helping them cultivate confidence and discipline.
“With the relocation and relaunch of Birthright and Music for Life, we are entering a new chapter, one where more mothers find safety, and more children discover confidence, creativity, and self-belief,” Dr Christina said.
“This marks our commitment to touching more lives and building stronger, more resilient communities.”
The children were also given school bags and sports equipment sponsored by Peninsula International School Australia, educational stationery sets sponsored by Eco-Shop Marketing Bhd as well as festive goodie packs.
A live auction featuring artist Rita Lim was also held, with proceeds channelled towards expansion of GCS community programmes.
