GEORGE TOWN, 12 November 2025 – The Sekretariat Sukarelawan India (SSI USM) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) successfully carried out its Community Outreach Programme 5.0, a charitable initiative aimed at supporting the homeless and underprivileged in Penang, with the programme mobilising USM student volunteers in delivering assistance to affected communities.

 

Organised in collaboration with the Aram Seivom Foundation, the outreach involved USM volunteers distributing essential items such as food packs, hygiene kits and tissue rolls to individuals living in vulnerable conditions across selected locations in Penang, thereby demonstrating sustained commitment towards community welfare.

“This programme is more than just giving — it’s about acknowledging the dignity of those often overlooked by society, and we wanted to connect with them, listen and show that they are not forgotten,” said Yushitra Kumaravelu, Project Director of Community Outreach Programme 5.0, who emphasised the importance of respectful engagement in community outreach.

 

The initiative also provided warm meals and emotional support through conversations and direct community interaction, while volunteers were trained not only to distribute aid but also to cultivate respectful and compassionate communication with the beneficiaries.

The programme was made possible through public contributions via an RM1 crowdfunding campaign, which demonstrated how small donations can generate meaningful collective impact.

 

The initiative also aligns with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
SDG 1: No Poverty through the provision of basic necessities,
SDG 2: Zero Hunger through direct meal distribution, and
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being through attention to physical and emotional care in underserved communities.

Community Outreach Programme 5.0 additionally served as a platform for students to strengthen empathy, leadership and real-world problem-solving skills, in line with USM’s HEBAT attributes that emphasise holistic and balanced student development.

SSI USM extends its heartfelt appreciation to Chief Minister of Penang, YAB Chow Kon Yeow, for his unwavering support and encouragement towards community-based initiatives such as Community Outreach Programme 5.0, acknowledging that his leadership continues to inspire volunteer-driven efforts that benefit underprivileged communities.

SSI USM also conveys its sincere gratitude to all donors, partners and volunteers whose contributions made this impactful initiative possible.

Text: Yushitra Kumaravelu, Project Director, Community Outreach Programme 5.0, Sekretariat Sukarelawan India (SSI USM)/Edited: Shafinaz Md Ismail