Serving in Malaysia
Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a captivating tapestry of cultural diversity, natural beauty, and modern innovation. This dynamic country, with its vibrant festivals and fascinating cuisine, entices travelers from around the globe.
Amidst Malaysia’s rapid transformation and concerted efforts to embrace its rich heritage while navigating future challenges, Global Volunteers has been extended a warm invitation to the enchanting city of Johor Bahru by the Soroptimist International (SI) Club of Bangsar. We invite you to help support our host and community partners in achieving their ambitious development goals.
Across the nation, the scarcity of native English teachers poses significant hurdles because learning English is vitally important for students’ education and job prospects. In addition, individuals with disabilities too often are confronted with limited opportunities, despite their determined efforts, and special needs teachers don’t always have the necessary knowledge to fully support parents and their children with autism and Down Syndrome. Further, orphaned and impoverished children need additional love and attention to help them grow up to be strong and meaningful contributors to Malaysian society. These community development issues led the Soroptimist of Bangsar to invite Global Volunteers to serve in Johor Bahru.
Our five community partners have requested volunteers to:
- Teach conversational English to children and teens to improve language skills and offer students a global perspective.
- Make learning fun for orphaned and single-parent children through reading, games, skits, and music.
- Help youngsters with numeracy and math comprehension, science, and geography.
- Train teachers in pedagogy and special needs education.
- Conduct workshops for teachers and parents of autism and Down syndrome youth
Community Partner & Work Projects
The Soroptimist International (SI) Club of Bangsar, led by Nora Lam, a business lawyer, is Global Volunteers’ host in Malaysia. SI is a worldwide network of women professionals dedicated to advancing human rights and women’s status through service projects. Soroptimists work at all levels of civil society – local, national, and international – and are involved in a broad spectrum of women’s concerns. SI works closely with other NGOs to promote positive social and economic changes that improve the lives of women, children, and families. SI Bangsar is affiliated with Soroptimist International Southeast Asia and Pacific (SISEAP), part of a larger federation spanning 12 countries in the Asia Pacific Region. SI enjoys General Consultative Status with the United Nations (UN) Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
Global Volunteers works with five community partners in Johor Bahur and surrounding areas.
Rotarc Children’s Education Center supports children aged 3 to 17, who are orphaned or come from single-parent families facing financial challenges. Volunteers are needed to assist teachers in providing students personalized attention, engaging with preschoolers, and supporting older children learning English, math, and science.
Kuala Masai, an indigenous fishing village near Johor Bahru, has limited access to education beyond the primary level. Consequently, the community leadership has requested assistance in teaching English, math, and science to children aged 5 to 15.
Kiwanis Care Heart Centre provides education, training, and support for individuals with special needs. Volunteers with special education backgrounds or experience as parents of special needs children are needed to train staff in teaching techniques, conduct workshops for parents, and enhance teachers’ professional knowledge.
Villa Paulos Welfare Home cares for exploited, abused, and orphaned children aged 6 to 18. Volunteers provide after-school assistance in English, math, science, and geography, and engage children in various activities like games, music, and sports.
Sri Ara International School is a secular school committed to a holistic education for students from diverse backgrounds. English is the primary medium of instruction. Sri Ara has a truly international, multicultural, multireligious atmosphere, with 80+ students from many different countries and religions. The 20 teachers are mainly Muslim women. Volunteers are needed to teach conversational English and provide the students a global perspective. Professionals with backgrounds in special education are also needed
Service Program Logistics
Malaysia Service Programs are led by Global Volunteers staff and volunteer team leaders experienced in managing and engaging diverse groups of people. In cooperation with our community partners, your team leader will facilitate your team’s orientation, assist you in becoming fully engaged in the work projects, and manage all logistical issues. Your team leader will also introduce you to the community, help acclimate you to the local culture, and engage you in the day-to-day life of the community.
Meals
In Malaysia, dining is not just a meal—it’s a sensory adventure that tantalizes the taste buds and celebrates the country’s rich culinary heritage. Influenced by Chinese, Indian, Thai, Javanese, and Sumatran traditions, Malaysian cuisine offers a delightful fusion of flavors, spices, and cooking techniques to satisfy every palate. Rice and noodles are staple ingredients, often accompanied by various curries, stir-fries, and aromatic herbs including lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric. Satay, a skewered and grilled meat served with peanut sauce, is a beloved Malaysian dish. Desserts, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages are readily available for an additional charge.
Breakfast is an extensive buffet of Asian and Western cuisine at the hotel. The buffet includes freshly prepared eggs (scrambled, omelets, etc.), fresh fruit (dragon fruit, watermelon, pineapple), brewed coffee and tea, fruit juices, cereal, a wide assortment of sweet rolls and breads, yogurt, bread pudding, and chocolate sauces which can be drizzled over almost everything. Lunches are either packed sandwiches or provided by the community partners. Dinners are at local cafe’s and restaurants in or near the hotel.
Lodging
Volunteers stay at the very comfortable Trove Hotel in double-occupancy rooms (single rooms are available for an additional fee of $315 for one week and $630 for two weeks). All rooms have private baths, hot water, showers, air conditioning, 110 outlets, and televisions. The hotel features a café, restaurant, bar, and fitness center, and is only a ten-minute ride from the Singapore border.
Transportation
All in-country transportation is included in your service program contribution. You’ll be transported to the Trove Hotel from Senai International Airport (JHB). Transportation to community project sites is by cars, buses, or vans. Some meeting points are within a short walking distance of the hotel. You’ll also be transported to the airport from the hotel on the last day of the service program.
Note: transportation for free-time activities is not included.
Program Mobility
Please accurately assess your functional mobility. Work assignments and partner communities require varying levels of physical stamina and mobility. After you register, you will be asked about your physical capabilities relating to your mobility. Please answer the questions honestly.
The Required Mobility for Malaysia: Mobile – You must be able to walk 1 mile, climb five flights of stairs, walk on uneven terrain, and get on and off buses and trains independently.
FREE-TIME ACTIVITIES
Malaysia offers many enjoyable free time opportunities, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to historic temples and modern skyscrapers. Malaysia was the fourteenth-most visited country in the world and the fourth-most visited country in Asia in 2019, with over 26.1 million visits pre-pandemic. There is a lot to do and see.
During your free time in Johor Bahru, you can wander along the charming streets of Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, where you’ll encounter traditional Chinese-style shophouses and colonial buildings, including the iconic Red House, now a Marrybrown fast food outlet. To glimpse royalty, visit Istana Bukit Serene, the majestic royal palace overlooking the Straits of Johor and offering panoramic views of Singapore. Animal lovers can enjoy a day at the Johor Zoo, one of Southeast Asia’s oldest zoos, where you can interact with over a hundred species, from gorillas to flamingoes. Discover the city’s spiritual side at the historic Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple, honoring five revered deities and boasting a striking red and white color scheme. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in café hopping along Jalan Dhoby and Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, savoring the city’s café culture. If you’re up for some adventure, investigate Legoland Malaysia Resort or take a day trip to Desaru Fruit Farm, where you can learn about agriculture practices, explore herbal gardens, and sample fresh fruits while enjoying the scenic countryside.
For weekend getaways, explore the historical city of Melaka (Malacca), where you can discover fascinating historical sites, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage. Alternatively, venture across the Straits of Johor to Singapore, a bustling city-state offering many attractions. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Singapore Botanic Gardens, featuring the stunning National Orchid Garden. Dive into the vibrant culture of Chinatown, or soak in the sights and sounds of Little India. For a day of excitement, head to Sentosa Island, home to Universal Studios Singapore and other thrilling attractions.
Service Program Contribution
Global Volunteer’s service program contribution covers all lodging in double accommodations, three meals a day, in-country transportation, emergency medical evacuation insurance, all preparatory materials, onsite orientation, a full-time team leader, and administration costs. Single rooms are available for an additional fee. The tax-deductible service program contribution is $2,697 for one week and $3,195 for two weeks. Please ask your volunteer coordinator about possible discounts, including Team Starter, student, companion, group, and alumni discounts, as well as referral credits. Consider using Global Volunteer’s online fundraising tool to create a personalized webpage to request partially tax-deductible donations from family and friends to help cover your service program contribution. You might be surprised by the number of people who want to help you financially so you can help children reach their potential.
Airfare and free time activities are your responsibility and are not included in the service program contribution; however, airfare, visa, and related expenses are tax-deductible for U.S. taxpayers.
Malaysia Dates
Reserve your spot today!
Upcoming Volunteer Dates in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Call one of our volunteer coordinators at 800-487-1074 to answer questions or register.
You WILL make a world of difference!