Some of you may remember the kids from Project Fireflies at Angsana flats in USJ 1. Recently, when I was informed of the children’s camp-in at Subang Parade, I requested for 4 of the kids from Project Fireflies to be included in the camp. The objectives were for them to practice their English learned from Project Fireflies with other children and also for them to meet and know children from different areas in Subang Jaya.
With the 4 boys from Project Fireflies
In my speech, I reminded the children to play with everyone regardless of their race, language proficiencies or whether or not they are children with special needs. Integration is so vital for Malaysia to remain as a nation of different races and cultures. If we can’t convince the powers that be how important this is or if we can’t teach the adults the dangers of race-based politics – hey, then let’s start anew, let’s teach the future leaders of this country the importance of respecting others and how not to discriminate others based on the colour of their skin.
Chief Inspector Sulaiman of SS17 police station was also present to educate the children on safety issues and precautionary measures. Children were also given whistles and taught how to use them when they’re in danger. My office sponsored sleeping bags for these children.
We may not be able to change the entire nation for now, but we change one life at a time. According to Jochebed Isaacs, the coordinator of Project Fireflies who has a real heart to assist in changing the lives of these children, she said : I have a vision to set these children free from the bondage of poverty through education. Malaysians, we have a lot of work to do and we need more working hands instead of criticizing mouths and stealing hands.