Volunteer with orphans in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Travellers aren’t alone in making tracks to see Kuala Lumpur, with its space age architecture and pristine litter free streets; they’re joined by people from rural areas hoping to play a role in the country’s economic expansion. The increased population puts extra pressure on the city’s infrastructure and inevitably some people lose out, which is where you can help! With our partner project in the city you will provide valuable assistance to children in marginalised communities who have been abandoned and orphaned. You’ll help build social and educational skills, providing them with a positive role model (and the project staff with a much needed helping hand.) Don’t forget our TEFL certification is included to make sure you’re fully prepared.

Please arrange your flights to arrive into Kuala Lumpur International Airport. KLIA (airport code KUL) on the specified arrival date. There are a number of projects that you could be placed at in various locations throughout Kuala Lumpur. All offer shelter, support, basic education and social welfare to orphaned, neglected and abused children. They are either privately run or have been set up by NGOs to care for newborns through to children aged 18yrs old. They all aim to provide a safe and stable environment so that these children can focus on their education, develop life skills and confidently leave the welfare homes behind for a brighter future.

All the projects are understaffed and volunteers are desperately needed. The projects that volunteers work with aim to help disadvantaged children and bring them off the streets to help break the cycle of poverty and abuse. By sharing your own life experiences and cultures you will be able to inspire the children. Besides teaching English volunteers can offer love and attention as well as other social skills that the children can gain through interaction. English is fundamental to opening up the door to advanced educational opportunities and career choices.

You must have a love of children and be committed to helping them achieve a better life. Volunteers who are flexible and willing to get involved in anything that is asked will certainly gain immense personal benefits and satisfaction. You must also be aware that the children you are working with can be overly active, easily distracted or disengaged. You will need perseverance, tolerance and understanding when working with them. To ensure that you get the most out of - and contribute fully to - your placement a pro-active attitude is essential.

You will be involved in caring for the children and teaching them basic skills, these may include teaching English, helping with homework, organising recreational activities, helping at meal times and coaching in basic life skills. You will be generally giving care and attention that they would otherwise not receive. Malaysia enjoys a constant hot and humid climate, averaging at around 30°C, with the highland areas several degrees cooler. The main hindrance to enjoying all that the country has to offer is the monsoon season which pelts the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah’s north east region and the west of Sarawak with heavy rains from November to February. During this time, many resorts close and boat services come to a halt. A scattering of thunderstorms can occur on the Peninsular’s west coast during April and May. Weather wise, April through to October are the best times to visit.

The country is at its most populous with an influx of tourists from early December to late January and during the peak summer season which runs from June to August. It’s advisable to book travel and accommodation in advance if visiting during these times.