A Heartwarming Deepavali: UPLIFT Brings Joy to Kuala Selangor Community

On October 20, 2024, Pertubuhan Bangkit (UPLIFT) and BAC Education distributed essential food aid to families struggling to make ends meet. The food packages included 5 kg of rice, instant noodles, salt, sardines, sugar, and cooking oil, and are part of UPLIFT’s mission to promote the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3)—Good Health and Well-Being.

The UPLIFT initiative was aimed at reducing the financial burden of these families as they prepared for Deepavali. By providing essential food items, UPLIFT hoped to remind them that they are not alone, that there are NGOs and support systems in Malaysia committed to helping them through challenging times.

During the event, Mr. Ramalingam introduced the UPLIFT team to the community, and expressed his gratitude for the food aid. He provided a brief history of the 80-year-old temple, which has long served as a hub for the local community, many of whom work in the plantation fields of Kuala Selangor.

Ms. Gandhimathi also addressed the community, offering heartfelt thanks to UPLIFT and BAC Education for their ongoing support. In her speech, she encouraged families to plan their savings throughout the year, so they don’t struggle during festive seasons like Deepavali. More importantly, she urged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of education.

Speaking in Tamil, Ms. Mithila reinforced this message, highlighting the pivotal role that education plays in transforming lives, reminding them that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty. She urged the community to explore scholarship opportunities and reach out to NGOs and associations that offer support to B40 families, helping them to overcome financial barriers to education.