A Meal and a Moment of Dignity

In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where city lights shine bright, but shadows linger in forgotten corners, a group of young people set out to make a difference. On July 6, 2025, the Tzu Shao high school volunteers in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur came together to prepare and deliver 250 vegetarian lunchboxes to the Medan Tuanku Homeless Transit Centre. Their efforts went beyond providing a meal—they offered companionship, understanding, and a sense of dignity to those often overlooked.

Challenging Stereotypes Through Direct Experience

For many of the students, this was their first time interacting with the homeless. Kang-He Liao (廖康和), who handed out meals, admitted,

“I used to think of the homeless as vagrants, maybe with bad attitudes or even prone to stealing. But after meeting them today, I realized they’re just like anyone else—polite and friendly, not at all what I imagined.” — Kang-He Liao

He recalled a moment when an elderly woman, missing all her teeth, received a lunchbox and bowed deeply in gratitude. “At that moment, I felt every drop of sweat under the sun was worth it,” he said.

Despite the heat, the students worked tirelessly from early morning, preparing food under umbrellas that barely shielded them from the high temperatures. Zi-En Huang (黃紫恩), who was not feeling well but still participated, said, “It was exhausting, but this is an experience I didn’t want to miss. My hands turned red from chopping carrots!”

Learning Beyond the Classroom

For these young volunteers, the day was more than a service project—it was a lesson in empathy and humanity. Many had previously volunteered at orphanages or homes for the elderly, but this was their first time reaching out to people living on the streets. Each encounter offered a new perspective and a valuable life lesson.

Yi-Lin Chen (陳奕霖), who took on the responsibility of cooking for so many, felt the pressure keenly. “A small mistake could ruin the whole dish,” he said. “My shoulders really hurt now, but I just wanted to put all my love into every bite.”

The Quiet Power of Giving

As evening approached, the center filled with people. Volunteer Siew Ching Wong (黃曉清) shuttle through the crowd, crouching down to speak gently with each person. She explained, “Not everyone who comes for a meal is just looking for a free handout. Many come with their last shred of dignity.”

She shared that many of the homeless are eager to regain independence and even become donors themselves. “We’ve counted up to 240 homeless individuals who have quietly donated, because they don’t want to always be on the receiving end.”

One story stood out: a woman worried she wouldn’t have any money to donate on Malaysia Day, when the volunteers planned a special visit. “She was happy we were coming, but also anxious—she didn’t want to come empty-handed,” Huang recalled. “Even with nothing, she wanted to give, to be the one offering help.”

Stories of Resilience and Hope

The day’s activities also included haircuts. Among those waiting was Kenneth Matthews, a middle-aged man who spoke fluent English and dressed neatly despite his circumstances. He had been homeless for seven months, after a major fall out with his family left him without a home.

“I look for odd jobs every day and come here for a shower and a meal,” Kenneth said. “It’s not that I’m not trying, but some things can’t be fixed by effort alone.” He still tries to support his family, using government aid to buy things for his wife and daughter, even though he cannot return home. “I hope one day there will be a miracle, and I can really go home,” he said quietly.

Kenneth expressed gratitude for the volunteers’ respectful approach and the students’ kindness. “These young people are so polite and friendly. You can tell they’ve been well taught.”

Restoring Dignity Through Care and Companionship

For many, the simple act of receiving a meal or a haircut was about more than meeting basic needs—it was about being seen and respected. The homeless who participated were not just recipients of charity, but active contributors, often giving back in whatever way they could.

As the day ended, the students and their parents reflected on the lessons learned. Even a single meal, given with sincerity, can bring warmth to the heart. As Master Cheng Yen teaches, “With a kind heart, blessings follow; to give is to be rich.” On this day, the streets of Kuala Lumpur shone a little brighter, thanks to the compassion and action of its youth.

Written by Hsin-Yen Chiang (江欣燕)

Translated by Chia-ying Hung (洪嘉霙)

Source: 城市有風也有愛 慈少生街頭送暖