In a heartwarming display of the holiday spirit, various departments and ministries of the Malaysia Union Mission (MAUM) of Seventh-day Adventists joined forces for a charitable cause, choosing to bring joy to the children of the Children’s Future Education Centre, a school catering to Myanmar migrant workers and refugee children.

Representatives from the MAUM headquarters embarked on a mission early Wednesday morning, December 13, 2023, for a day filled with activities at the center. Collaborating ministries included Youth, Adventist Community Services, Adventist Possibility Ministries, Children’s Ministries, and the Education and Communication departments.

The day kicked off with a festive celebration at a local fast food restaurant, setting a cheerful tone for the event. Forty-one students and four teachers eagerly gathered just fifteen minutes after the arrival of the MAUM team. The children were warmly seated as the volunteers initiated the program with joyful hymns and a brief introduction to the day's activities. After learning the names of all the volunteers, the children were organized into groups in preparation for the upcoming field trip.

The highlight of the morning unfolded as each student received a gift, setting off an atmosphere of excitement and gratitude. While unwrapping their presents, the children enjoyed a party complete with sweet treats.

To enhance the party experience, games were organized. Laughter and smiles filled the air as the party concluded, and the children, in their designated groups, boarded the bus for the next segment of their adventure.

A short bus ride allowed the children to rest briefly before immersing themselves in a scientific educational experience at the National Science Centre. For many students, this marked their first field trip and their inaugural visit to the center. Despite their enthusiasm to explore galleries and engage in science-based activities, the children displayed commendable behavior throughout the visit. They actively participated in robotics and digital games, making the most of this unique learning opportunity.

After two enriching hours, it was time to bid farewell. Expressing their heartfelt thanks, the children conveyed gratitude to the Malaysia Union Mission for sponsoring the field trip and organizing a memorable fellowship. The team reciprocated with prayers for the students, their families, teachers, and the school, creating a poignant moment before the bus departed. Each child returned home not only happy but also enriched by a newfound experience.

The MAUM welcomes individuals passionate about making a positive impact in underprivileged communities to join efforts in achieving the program's primary goal. Aligned with the world church’s I Will Go initiative, these ministries aim to establish a model for local missions by sharing the love of Jesus through total member involvement, reaching out to immigrants and refugees in large cities and fostering intentional collaborations.

The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website.