By Zhu Jianxi 1002579184, Wu Yujie 1002578614, Xia Aoxue 1002579713, Huangzixuan 1002579779, Djuraeva Dilara 1002578045

“The one thing these children need most is to know they are loved,” —Richard

The simple words “You are loved” have become the strength that enables countless deprived children to face life bravely again. Founded in 1995, Yayasan Sunbeams Home is located at No. 57 & 59, Jalan Bunga Melur 11a, Taman Mawar, 56100 Kuala Lumpur. Over the past 31 years, the shelter has expanded from housing merely two children to caring for 73 youngsters today, having supported more than 305 orphaned and disadvantaged children on their journey of growth.

Richard, the current administrator of Sunbeams Home, shared in an interview that the shelter’s founder was once a schoolteacher. Back then, he noticed many of his pupils came to school without having eaten, so he spent his own money to buy food for them. As the number of children in need kept growing, he eventually resolved to set up a shelter to offer them a warm home.

“The one thing these children need most is to know they are loved,” Richard said. Many of the children come from broken families and have endured rejection, neglect and even abuse. For this reason, the shelter prioritises granting them a sense of safety and belonging above all else.

Beyond providing meals and accommodation, Yayasan Sunbeams Home runs a
community learning centre. Small-class teaching and personalised tuition help
children catch up on their studies. Richard explained that some children have weak academic foundations and struggle to keep up with mainstream school syllabuses, so the shelter arranges lessons tailored to each child’s actual learning ability.

Creating a safe and loving home: Richard with the children of Yayasan Sunbeams Home.

“We do not teach according to age; instead, we start at each child’s real academic level to help them rebuild self confidence,” he stated.

When talking about educational achievements, Richard revealed that several students achieved outstanding results in last year’s SPM examinations, and some were awarded full scholarships to pursue further studies.

“One of our students scored six As last year. This proves that these children can achieve success as long as they are given opportunities,” he said.

Rebuilding confidence through literacy and education.

Nevertheless, Richard admitted that the shelter is currently plagued by shortages of funding and manpower. Staff salaries, utility bills and daily operational expenses have long relied on donations from the general public.

Facing realities with love and perseverance.

“Many people assume children no longer need support once they are taken in, but the reality is quite the opposite. Our operations constantly rely on support from the community,” he remarked.

As for how the public can assist the shelter, Richard said that besides making cash donations, members of the public can volunteer to accompany the children as they grow up.

Student dorm

“The children love spending time with older teenage volunteers, and this companionship means everything to them,” he added.

Recognition of meaningful volunteer companionship.