TAMPIN, Nov 28 (Bernama) -- The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Malaysia has supported nearly 200,000 children nationwide by providing Back-to-School packs since the initiative was introduced in 2017.

RMHC Malaysia President Datuk Azmir Jaafar said more than RM10 million has been allocated to ensure this effort reaches those in need.

He said that for the upcoming school year, RMHC Malaysia aims to assist 10,000 preschoolers from underprivileged families nationwide with Back-to-School Packs, with an estimated expenditure of RM1 million.

"Over the years, we have received positive feedback from parents, teachers, and schools. This programme is eagerly anticipated by children each year. Receiving new school supplies brings joy and motivates them to attend school and study diligently.

"This year, we continue this effort with the support of corporate partners and individuals. Yayasan Jaafar Ahmad (YJA) has been a regular sponsor in Negeri Sembilan, and this time, about 1,000 schoolchildren in the state will benefit," said Azmir, who is also the founder of YJA.

He was speaking to reporters at the launch of the Back-to-School Pack Programme at Dewan Semai Bakti Felda Pasir Besar, Gemas. The event was also attended by YJA Advisor Zainuddin Jaafar and RMHC Malaysia General Manager Nasri Nordin.

Azmir added that the distribution of Back-to-School Packs is expected to be completed by March next year, before the start of the 2025 school session.

Meanwhile, YJA contributed RM50,000 to RMHC Malaysia this year, benefitting 350 children from 11 primary schools and four Tabika KEMAS preschools in the Tampin district.

"This initiative is close to my heart as I, too, am a child of Felda settlers. I want these children to be motivated to learn and excel academically," he said.

Meanwhile, Nasri highlighted that RMHC Malaysia and their Back-to-School Pack supplier, Mydin, will collaborate with schools across the country to identify deserving students in each state.

The partnership between RMHC Malaysia and YJA also extends to various welfare and community programmes focusing on children in Negeri Sembilan, he said..

"Since its inception, the foundation has been committed to helping those in need in the state through various contributions, including sponsoring iftar meals during Ramadan," Nasri said.

Overall, YJA has contributed nearly RM600,000 through RMHC Malaysia for community activities in the state, including providing daily necessities and cash assistance.

Additionally, YJA funded the opening of the Ronald McDonald Sensory Therapy Room at McDonald’s Tampin, providing specialised treatment for the local community.

Siti Nurfatin Zulkifli, 27, the mother of a six-year-old recipient, said the donation alleviated the financial burden on her husband, a truck driver.

Similarly, Hamidah Alias, 68, who accompanied her 10-year-old grandchild, an orphan, shared her joy.

"This is the second time I’ve received this school aid. My grandchild is thrilled and motivated. I pray he grows up to be a successful person," she said.

-- BERNAMA