MELAKA: What began as a simple idea among a group of caring locals blossomed into a heartfelt Lunar New Year outreach to bring joy to underprivileged people.
Volunteers pooled their energy and resources to bring cheer to underprivileged residents as well as senior citizens at several charity homes across the historic city.
The initiative was led by Happy Charity Association, whose members worked closely with Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB) and Melaka Civil Defence (APM) Corporate Associate Officers (PPBAPM) to ensure the festive vibes reached the needy.
Association's chairman Eow Chye Gee said the programme reflected the association’s long-standing commitment to spreading joy during major festivities, particularly among vulnerable communities.
"Our association has always believed that celebrations should be shared by everyone, regardless of age or background.
“Festive seasons are about togetherness, and it's important that residents of welfare homes feel included and remembered,” he said in an interview on Wednesday (Feb 4).
Eow said volunteers visited five charity homes, distributing essential supplies such as food items, daily necessities and festive provisions to ease the burden on residents and caretakers alike.
"Beyond material aid, the team also took time to interact with the elderly and residents, exchanging greetings," he said.
Eow said the simple gesture, from shared conversations to festive decorations, helped create a cheerful Lunar New Year atmosphere within the homes.
"We were happy to see smiles on their faces, and that alone made all the effort worthwhile,” he added.
The outreach, he said, also highlighted the strength of community collaboration with local authorities, non-governmental organisations and individuals coming together for a common cause.
Eow expressed hope that similar initiatives would continue beyond festive seasons, encouraging more members of the public to play a role in supporting welfare homes.
