RMHC Malaysia distributes 10,000 back-to-school packs to support underprivileged children nationwide

GEMAS - In an effort to support underprivileged children as they prepare for the upcoming school year, Ronald McDonald House Charities Malaysia (RMHC Malaysia) officially launched its annual Back-to-School Pack Programme.

The programme launch initiative took place in Felda Pasir Besar, Negeri Sembilan, with the goal of distributing 10,000 Back-to-School Packs to children from low-income families nationwide, at an estimated cost of RM1 million.

Targeting preschoolers transitioning into Year 1 for the 2025 academic year, the packs will be distributed in phases and are expected to be completed before the new school term starts in March 2025.

President of RMHC Malaysia, Datuk Azmir Jaafar, highlighted the programme's importance in easing the financial burden on parents and encouraging children's enthusiasm for education.

“The education pillar of RMHC Malaysia is centred on assisting low-income families and urban poor in preparing their children for formal schooling with the excitement of new school essentials.

“Through the Back-to-School Pack Programme, RMHC Malaysia not only alleviates parents' financial burdens but also inspires preschoolers to attend school. We hope this motivates them to learn, succeed and ultimately contribute positively to society,” he said.

The Back-to-School Packs include schoolbags and essential supplies such as uniforms and more. Photo courtesy of McDonald's Malaysia.

Since its inception in 2017, the programme has distributed over RM10 million worth of school supplies, benefiting nearly 200,000 children throughout Malaysia.

To further bolster this cause, the Yayasan Jaafar Ahmad, established by Azmir and his family, also contributed to the distribution of Back-to-School Packs in Negeri Sembilan. A total of 350 preschoolers from 15 institutions in Tampin received their packs in the latest donation ceremony.

Overall, the foundation aims to provide 1,000 students in Negeri Sembilan with essential school supplies.

Yayasan Jaafar Ahmad’s Advisor, Zainudin Jaafar, emphasised his family’s commitment to supporting their home state of Negeri Sembilan.

"As natives of Negeri Sembilan, my family and I are committed to giving back to our home state and its community.

“Today’s donation of Back-to-School Packs reflects our effort to ensure that underprivileged children have equal access to education and succeed in their schooling journey,” he added.

The programme not only eases parents' financial burdens but also motivates children to attend school. Photo courtesy of McDonald's Malaysia.

RMHC Malaysia has been a vital presence in the country for 34 years, working to improve the lives of underprivileged children by providing better access to education and healthcare.

This initiative builds on RMHC's long standing global mission, following the organisation’s 50th anniversary of supporting children and families worldwide.

Through these efforts, RMHC Malaysia continues to demonstrate its commitment to creating a brighter future for the nation's most vulnerable children.