Volunteering in Malaysia: Team 2’s Story of Service in Johor Bahru
With anticipation and excitement, Global Volunteers’ second team in Malaysia embarked on an adventure in service. The team, comprised of 13 dedicated volunteers, arrived in Johor Bahru ready to make a difference over two weeks. Known for its cultural diversity, tropical beauty, and resilient communities, Malaysia embraced Team 2 with open arms. Through meaningful service in schools and community centers, they formed lasting bonds with children, educators, and one another. Read on to discover how these compassionate volunteers left a lasting impact on the children, and how the experience changed their lives, too.
A Warm Welcome and a Shared Purpose
From the very first evening, the volunteers knew they were part of something special. “What a unique and enriching experience awaits us—a remarkable service program here in Malaysia,” wrote Phyllis Thompson, reflecting on the team’s welcome dinner. “We are ‘Team Two’ in Johor Bahru, but I think we should label ourselves as ‘T’ for terrific and talented!”
With a combined history of over 100 Global Volunteers service programs, the team brought a wealth of experience and heartfelt intention. Orientation set the tone: to learn about Malaysian culture, grow personally, share American values, uplift children, and create a joyful, respectful environment.
Teaching, Listening, Laughing, and Learning
Volunteers served six community partners in Johor Bahru.
At Rotary Community Academy, volunteers supported 8 children from orphaned or single-parent households facing financial hardship. The team worked across a broad age range, from preschoolers to teens, helping with English pronunciation, geography, and math fundamentals. “We played memory games, Simon Says, and even taught about continents and oceans,” shared Carol Davis. “The most interesting takeaway,” Linda Gustafson reported during one of the team meetings, “is how focused these children are on finishing homework before any play!” Volunteers also took time to simply be present with the children—laughing, listening, and showing that someone truly cares.
At Villa Paulos Welfare Home, which cares for children who have faced exploitation and abuse, volunteers created a safe and joyful learning environment. They helped with homework, led group games like charades and musical chairs, and introduced cultural lessons, such as Cynthia and Kent’s lively presentation on Hawaii, which was accompanied by making leis. “It was surprising and happy to see them, all jittery about wearing something they made. Made me wonder how often they get to do any crafts in the school day. We finished with singing and dancing to the Pearly Shells, from 10 to 17-year-old kids,” shared Cynthia Inouye.
At 100 Lambs International School, home to over 1,200 students, volunteers were welcomed into classrooms to build confidence in public speaking and global awareness. The children were especially eager to talk about geography, international holidays, and life in the U.S. Leslie Crocket and Ken Smalls led thoughtful conversations on ethical dilemmas and group dynamics. “It’s amazing how engaged the students become when we connect what we’re teaching to real-life situations. Whether it’s moral dilemmas or geography, they light up when they feel heard and understood,” said Ken. “One student asked, ‘How do I talk about girls?’” shared Marie Williams, “and it opened a whole new level of meaningful conversation.” John Taylor enjoyed some fun and friendly competition by playing pickleball with the students, helping to build rapport and encourage physical activity in a relaxed, engaging way. Volunteers also helped prepare props for student performances, shared American idioms, and supported preschool teachers with arts and crafts.
“It’s amazing how engaged the students become when we connect what we’re teaching to real-life situations. Whether it’s moral dilemmas or geography, they light up when they feel heard and understood.”
Ken Smalls
The team at Sri Ara International School, an international, multicultural school, focused on building students’ conversational English skills and cultural understanding. Ellen Gerl and Ginny Giffin encouraged self-expression through essays, art projects, and storytelling. Students were invited to ask questions freely—like “What is equilibrium?” or “How do you make a window?” “It was an exciting moment to see them take ownership of their learning,” said Ginny. Volunteers also collaborated with teachers, some of whom expressed interest in learning American teaching methods.
At iCare Center, which provides food, shelter, and a nurturing after-school environment to vulnerable children, volunteers offered lessons in English and math through playful, engaging activities. From The Hokey Pokey and word games to drawing life stories and decorating for Christmas, the center became a place of warmth and expression. “Ken, John, and I helped the children decorate the room and even taught them how to make paper snowflakes,” said Leslie. “We were surprised with a thank-you cake at the end—such a humbling gesture.”
And at Kiwanis Care Heart Centre, a haven for individuals with special needs, Leslie, a former special educator, led workshops on visual schedules, task analysis, and data collection. “They were so open to new ideas,” she reflected, “and the visit to their art museum filled with pieces created by individuals with disabilities was truly moving.” Leslie also explored the center’s hydroponic garden and vocational workshops, learning just as much as they taught.
Culture and Connection
The team’s free time was spent immersing themselves in Malaysia’s vibrant culture, exploring historic Malacca, cruising the Straits of Johor, visiting the Johor Heritage Foundation, and going to Singapore.
“We explored the Jonker Walk night market, tasted crab burgers and watermelon juice, and saw local handicrafts,” wrote Carol, who spent her free weekend in Malacca. Linda and Ellen experienced the tranquility of a mangrove river tour in Desaru. “It was calming, fascinating, and a beautiful reminder of nature’s resilience.”
You Can Be Part of the Story
Whether you’re a college student seeking meaningful travel, a working professional eager to give back, or someone with a lifetime of experience looking to make a difference, there is a place for you on a Global Volunteers team in Malaysia. Volunteers bring more than just skills; they bring heart, presence, and the willingness to connect across cultures. As volunteer Leslie shared, “Have we learned about the culture of the Malaysian people? Have we experienced personal growth? Have we shared our American culture? Did we have a positive impact on the community? Did we create a fun and respectful environment? A resounding YES! It’s been fantastic!”
“Have we learned about the culture of the Malaysian people? Have we experienced personal growth? Did we have a positive impact on the community? Did we create a fun and respectful environment? A resounding YES! It’s been fantastic!”
Leslie Crocket
From helping children gain confidence in speaking English to tutoring students in math and science or simply offering a listening ear and a kind word, your impact is real and lasting. “Hearing the final bell was a reminder of how much these kids give back to you. They’re curious, kind, and full of spirit. It’s been a joy to share a little piece of our world with them.” Kent Inouye said.
When you serve in Malaysia, you are not only giving your time, you’re building friendships, learning alongside resilient communities, and becoming part of something bigger than yourself. “The students followed behind our car, waving goodbye in the rearview,” shared George Fiske, “It was hard to leave.”
Join Global Volunteers in Malaysia and be part of a team that plants seeds of kindness, knowledge, and hope, one child at a time.
Request more information about volunteering in Malaysia >>
Bring your compassion, your curiosity, and your smile, and we will take care of the rest.
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