KUCHING: Sarawakians are undeniably kindhearted people but the State Welfare Department feels that there is a need to step up the effort in promoting volunteerism.
Based on the data provided by the department on the small number of people who registered as volunteers, the Welfare, Community Well-Being, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah is planning to increase the number by organising a Welfare Volunteer Run during the 2019 Sarawak Wellbest Carnival to be held on Dec 1.
“The data indicates that there are 2,150 registered volunteers aged 18 and above, with Kuching having the highest number of registered volunteers with 550 people.
“But there are other places that need more people to become volunteers such as Sibu and Kapit,” she said during the 2019 Sarawak Wellbest Carnival press conference at Metrocity Matang here on Monday.
The minister added that through this venture programme, she hopes this would be tantamount in motivating the public to join and register themselves as volunteers.
“We are targeting 3,000 people to participate in the Welfare Volunteer Run.
“Out of the figure, we hope to motivate some 1,600 participants to register as welfare volunteers,” she revealed.
Voicing out the need to revamp more programmes in campaigning welfare as a social responsibility among the public, Fatimah said it is necessary to acknowledge volunteers’ role and provide more initiatives to spark interest and passion in volunteerism.
“The current number of volunteers is not enough to assist groups who need extra care, especially senior citizens.
“We need to emphasise that welfare is everyone’s responsibility,” she pointed out.
Asked on the criteria and eligibility to volunteer, Fatimah said she would encourage those who have the interest and passion to serve the community to be a volunteer under the ministry.
“Any Malaysian aged 18 and above is eligible to volunteer.
“But to care for the elderly, especially those living alone and in poverty, the person must be able to befriend and interact with them. Help them around or simply just provide company.
“People with a bad temper need to go through courses to sharpen their interpersonal communication skills. It is important for volunteers to be able to remain calm and mindful,” she said.
On physical matters, she added that volunteers must have to be strong and energetic when assisting the community.
“Most of the time, volunteers are required to help support the elderly while walking or even carrying them.
“This includes during natural disasters, where volunteers are required to assist the victims during evacuation operation,” she elaborated.
Before the volunteers get their designated assignment, the ministry will conduct a screening process to ensure the safety of the individuals.
“We will identify the inclination on the background of the volunteer and they will also be given trainings before they can serve the community,” she said.
