A Path to Humility and Appreciation - An Interview with Student Volunteers

Two Young Hearts Share Their Journey of Giving Back Through Yayasan Suria

In a world where selflessness is often overshadowed by the demands of modern life, some individuals stand out for their dedication to making a difference. Idzham Safuan, a 25-year-old student pursuing a degree in Maritime & Logistics at the Netherlands Maritime University College, and Diana Lang, a 22-year-old Marketing student at the Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) Malaysia campus, have not only embraced the values of humility and appreciation but are actively sharing these virtues through their volunteering efforts with Yayasan Kebajikan Suria Kawasan Permas Johor Bahru (Yayasan Suria). Chatting with them on the sidelines of an event at a local mall in Johor Bahru, they shared their motivations, experiences, and lessons learned from their journey in the world of volunteering.

Idzham Safuan: Nurturing a Love for Helping Others

Idzham Safuan, a beacon of inspiration among his peers, believes that volunteering is more than just an act of charity; it's an opportunity to gain perspective and gratitude. His connection with Yayasan Suria began when the organisation provided essential supplies to his fellow students in the form of eggs, rice, vegetables, and more. This gesture left a lasting impact on Idzham, driving him to extend his gratitude through action.

"Whenever you try and help any organisation assisting other people, you will have a feeling of how lucky I am," Idzham says. This realization has transformed his outlook on life. He acknowledges that, amidst personal challenges and daily tasks, some face much more severe circumstances. Through volunteering, he has evolved into a better person, committed to uplifting those in need.

"I certainly love knowing I am helping people," Idzham adds, reflecting the profound joy that comes from contributing to the betterment of others' lives. His enthusiasm serves as a testament to the ripple effect that volunteering can create – not only transforming the lives of recipients but also inspiring others to participate and make a difference.

Diana Lang: Embracing Life's Blessings Through Service

Diana Lang, a soon-to-be graduate with a degree in Marketing, discovered the power of volunteering during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her journey began with a simple search for community service opportunities as part of her coursework, leading her to Uncle James and Yayasan Suria. A familial connection to the organization through her sister solidified her dedication to giving back.

Through her experiences with Yayasan Suria, Diana learned the values of humility and respect for individuals from all walks of life. Her eye-opening encounter with a 10-year-old cancer patient in Batu Pahat remains etched in her memory. This encounter transformed her perspective, instilling a profound sense of appreciation for life's blessings and a commitment to making a positive impact.

"Volunteer and learn how lucky you are to be alive, doing what you want to do, to be truthful and humble; these are lessons you need to learn and experience yourself as no one will teach you," Diana advises young people. Her words echo the sentiment that the journey of volunteering is a deeply personal and transformative one, leading to the discovery of one's strength, compassion, and resilience.

The stories of Idzham Safuan and Diana Lang stand as compelling narratives of the transformative power of volunteering. Their dedication to Yayasan Suria not only embodies the spirit of selflessness but also sheds light on the profound impact that giving back can have on one's character and perspective. Through their actions, they inspire others to recognize the blessings they possess and find ways to extend a helping hand to those in need. As they continue to champion the values of humility, gratitude, and empathy, their journey serves as a call to action for all to join the movement of kindness and compassion in today's world.