A Personal Connection
My journey with Engineers Without Borders (Singapore) to help the Orang Asli community in Kampung Gurney was a deeply personal one. Having spent three formative years of my life in Kuala Lumpur due to my dad’s overseas posting, the city holds a special place in my heart. So, it came as a surprise to learn that the Orang Asli, the indigenous people of Malaysia, still lived in certain areas within the capital. The moment I discovered this opportunity to give back, I knew I had to seize it - contributing to a place that played a role in shaping me.
Global Collaboration for Local Impact
We linked up with our Malaysian counterparts with the goal of collaborating on this project. This trip, though brief, served as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished in just a short span of time.
Over the course of a single weekend, we came together to install a rainwater harvesting system for an elderly woman living in a remote home. This village, cut off from the national water grid, had been struggling with ongoing water issues.
Don't Forget to Play!
One of the most memorable moments for me was joining the teenage boys for a game of Sepak Takraw. Picture this: a bustling court filled with teenagers, laughter echoing and a ball flying through the air like it had a mind of its own!
Despite the language barrier, the universal connection through sport was undeniable. I’m sure they were probably trash-talking me in their own indigenous language,
but that’s the magic of a ball — it brings people together, no words needed.
We were all just a bunch of kids at heart, united by the thrill of the game and the joy of shared laughter. What a blast!
A Deeper Appreciation of Our Privilege
This experience profoundly enriched my understanding and appreciation of the privileges we often take for granted in city life. In a vibrant metropolis like Kuala Lumpur, where the skyline is punctuated by towering skyscrapers and modern amenities, we frequently overlook the fundamental resources that enhance our daily existence.
The water that flows effortlessly from our taps, the electricity that illuminates our homes, and the Wi-Fi that connects us to the world are not just conveniences; they are vital lifelines that sustain our lives and foster our connections.
While we enjoy the comforts of modern living, it is essential to recognize the challenges faced by communities like the Orang Asli, who navigate a different reality within the same city.
This experience has reaffirmed the significance of inclusivity and the necessity of serving all residents, irrespective of their proximity to the city's bustling core. It is a call to acknowledge and uplift those whose voices may be less audible, ensuring that the benefits of urban life are shared by everyone.
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