KUALA KUBU BHARU, 14 June 2026 – The School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), together with the Environmental Protection & Education Hub (EPEHub) at the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS) and Tzu Chi Malaysia, successfully organised the ‘Trip for Care’ outreach programme at Taman Sinar Harapan (TSH), Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor.

The initiative was led by Associate Professor Dr. Sam Chan Siok Yee, who first visited TSH as a teenage volunteer.

Her strong desire to return with USM pharmacy students reflects her mission to instill values of volunteerism, empathy, and compassion, while giving students the chance to serve society through experiential learning.

The programme brought together 19 USM undergraduate students, one PhD student, one EPEHub intern, one college lecturer, and two USM lecturers – Dr. Sam Chan and Associate Professor Dr. Ng Theam Foo.

Service in Action

Upon arrival, volunteers were briefed and divided into groups to assist residents in different wards. Their tasks included cutting hair and nails, bathing, dressing, changing diapers, cleaning floors and windows, and entertaining residents with songs.

Students described the experience as eye‑opening and transformative.

One student shared, “I felt shocked at first, but the experience opened my eyes to how lucky most of us are. Even small acts of kindness can bring comfort and happiness to others.”

Another reflected, “Helping residents shower and dress humbled me. It reminded me to encourage them gently and communicate in ways they understood.”

A volunteer added, “Despite my initial fear, I realised they simply needed love and companionship. Singing together was a priceless moment I will never forget.”

Inspired by Dedication

The programme also highlighted the commitment of Tzu Chi Malaysia volunteers, some with over 30 years of service.

Their patience and compassion guided the students and inspired them to continue contributing to society.

Building Empathy and Gratitude

The outreach emphasised that gratitude and empathy are essential qualities for future healthcare professionals.

Students expressed how the experience made them more mindful of their blessings and strengthened their determination to serve others.

One participant summed it up: “Every extra hand brings extra warmth. This programme taught me that everyone deserves love, regardless of their condition.”

Sustainable Service Learning

Dr. Sam Chan expressed her appreciation to Sister Yap Siaw Ngo from Tzu Chi KKB Malaysia for making the programme part of the Bachelor of Pharmacy curriculum.

She explained, “By engaging with vulnerable communities, students not only gained practical caregiving skills, but also learned the importance of human connection and social responsibility. This programme provides a sustainable platform of service to the needy on a yearly basis.”

She added, “The continuation of this programme will allow more students to experience the transformative power of volunteerism.”

“This initiative also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals,” she said.

Text & Photo: Hong Kheng Jhun & Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ng Theam Foo, Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe