SUNGAI PETANI, Kedah, 8 November 2025 – The Sekretariat Sukarelawan India (SSI USM) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) successfully organised Jalinan Mesra 11.0 at Rumah Kebajikan Anak Yatim Arutjyothi Vallalar Mandram, an outreach initiative aimed at strengthening student volunteerism through meaningful engagement with underprivileged children.

The programme brought together 60 USM student volunteers in a coordinated effort to support and interact with orphaned children through a series of educational and interactive activities, including bonding sessions, a talent showcase and team-building games designed to create a nurturing environment and memorable experience.

This year’s initiative was supported by a nationwide RM1 crowdfunding campaign, which encouraged small contributions from the public that collectively funded programme materials, meals and charitable donations, demonstrating the impact of community participation.

“Through Jalinan Mesra 11.0, we wanted our student volunteers not only to serve but to connect deeply, learn compassion and understand the realities faced by orphaned children,” said Yushitra Kumaravelu, Project Director of Jalinan Mesra 11.0, highlighting the programme’s emphasis on empathy and awareness

The programme aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
• SDG 1: No Poverty
• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

It also embodies USM’s HEBAT values — Holistic, Balanced and Articulate, by providing students with a practical platform to develop empathy, leadership and social awareness through real-world engagement, thereby reinforcing the university’s commitment to shaping civic-minded graduates.

SSI USM extends its deepest appreciation to all sponsors, donors and the management of Rumah Kebajikan Anak Yatim Arutjyothi Vallalar Mandram for their invaluable support and trust, which played a vital role in ensuring the success of the programme.

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