Books Gift Earns Recognition for Sabah-based NGO

RANAU: The Society of Hope Sabah was recognised for the first time in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) after donating 10,000 units of stationery to students from the B40 group across Sabah.

About 80 rural schools in 20 districts throughout Sabah have been selected to receive this donation.

According to its President, Josephine Hadikusumo, the organisation focused on the educational needs of children from the B40 community.

“This programme began in January of this year, and after a year, we have distributed 10,000 sets of school stationery and exercise books to all children in 20 districts throughout Sabah.

“We believe that education should be prioritised because it is a critical component in breaking the cycle of poverty for these children.

“We are delighted to receive this (MBR) recognition because we were able to visit children living in the mountains, rivers, forests, and inland areas; we are grateful to our volunteers and sponsors who support

this programme,” she said after receiving the certificate of recognition at

Spring Garden, Mesilou in Kundasang, Ranau, Monday.

Throughout the programme, Josephine said that she had shed tears several

times.“I cried a few times because I was so moved. “Stationery or school books may not be as ‘glamorous’ as donations for students who live in the city or come from affluent families.

“But many students in rural areas really need it, and sometimes those who receive and give even cry,” she said.

Josephine hoped this type of programme would continue in the coming year. “For the next plan, I hope that with the help of sponsors, whether private, public, corporate, government, or non-governmental organisation, this programme can be extended until 2023.

“Furthermore, I intend to launch a new programme called mini scholarship or small scholarship.

“This is dedicated to poor children to encourage them to continue their education,

finish their studies, and achieve their goals so that they can return to the community and re-instil devotion,” she said.

Meanwhile, Farhan Syah Putra, a year-5-old pupil at SK Mesilau, expressed his joy and gratitude for the donation. “I received complete stationery and notebooks. “It will be used for things related to my

studies and for next year. “As of now, the other needs are sufficient,” he said.

Farrah Dianna Junail, a 12-year-old recipient from the same school, was also overjoyed. “I am delighted and grateful to have been chosen to receive donations from non-governmental organisations. “Maybe I’ll keep it for myself because my siblings have their own stationery. “Perhaps I’ll use this book whenever it’s necessary,” she said.