Caritas MJD’s mission to serve and transform lives

Jan 03, 2025

SABAH: Beyond Borders is an experiential service-learning mission initiated by Caritas MJD, designed to provide volunteers with the opportunity to support underprivileged communities beyond the Malacca Johore Diocese. This programme aims to inspire transformative experiences, enabling participants to embody their faith through action while gaining deep insights into the daily lives and challenges faced by these communities.

Recently, a group of volunteers had an experiential exposure in Sabah. As the main organiser and sponsor, Caritas MJD, collaborated closely with the Church of the Holy Cross Toboh in Tambunan, Sabah (a Caritas affiliate), to create a safe, meaningful, and impactful experience for all volunteers. During their time at Rumah Kanak-Kanak Bondulu — located next to Holy Cross Church Toboh and run by the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception (FSIC)—the Caritas Beyond Borders team orchestrated a variety of enriching activities for the children. These activities included interactive icebreakers and games to foster connections, as well as relaxing movie afternoons that conveyed important values through film. Volunteers also offered engaging basic English lessons, making language learning enjoyable and accessible.

A memorable highlight of the trip was an excursion to the stunning Mahua Waterfall, where the children could revel in the beauty of nature. They also explored the local “tamu” morning market, purchasing breakfast items to immerse themselves in the local culture. Committed to making a difference, the team initiated fundraising efforts to provide food supplies for families in rural hillside villages and to replace faulty equipment like fans, taps, a chiller, and a projector at the centre. These initiatives embody the spirit of Caritas Beyond Borders, cultivating meaningful connections and addressing the ongoing needs of the community.

This mission trip served as an excellent platform for volunteers to deepen their understanding of empathy, resilience, and responsibility. By stepping outside their comfort zones, they broadened their perspectives, experienced diverse lifestyles, and gained life lessons that will resonate long after the trip concludes.

Through these experiences, Beyond Borders harnesses the power of the volunteers’ presence, resources, time, and talents to create a significant impact in the lives of those they serve, promoting growth, compassion, and a renewed commitment to service.