Curtin Malaysia students showcase commitment to child protection through art and advocacy at SK Merbau

Miri, Sarawak – 7 November 2024 – Building on the success of its recent impactful mural project at SMK Taman Tunku, Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has once again shown its dedication to community welfare and child advocacy by supporting the ‘Talian Kasih Advocacy Programme 2.0’ at SK Merbau.

This time, a team of passionate General Studies diploma students from Curtin Malaysia’s School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE) took centre stage, led by team leaders Aiman Amzar Mohd. Syamaizar, Denzel Tan, and Ryan Kong Zi Yan, under the guidance of lecturers Valerie Velina Nagreg and Farahezza Hairon Nizar. Together, they created a powerful and vibrant mural that now stands as a permanent reminder of community support for child welfare at the school.

This mural, designed to symbolise the Talian Kasih Helpline’s mission, features vivid imagery of family, unity, and protection, resonating deeply with the programme’s goals. As a tribute to International Children’s Day, the mural underscores the shared responsibility to protect children and reinforce their sense of safety and belonging within the community.

The Talian Kasih Advocacy Programme 2.0, organised by the Miri Division Child Welfare Team and supported by the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development, aimed to raise awareness of child protection resources like the Talian Kasih Helpline. With contributions from organisations such as the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the programme featured educational talks, showcases, and interactive sessions, all designed to foster a culture of care and awareness for children’s safety and rights.

Miri City Councillor Jeffery Phang, representing Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Minister for Transport, attended the event as guest of honour. In his speech, Phang lauded the initiative as a significant step forward in creating a supportive environment for Miri’s younger generation, emphasising the need for community collaboration in promoting child welfare.

Mohd Firdaus Khaidir Razali, President of PKKK Miri, highlighted the programme’s goals and urged for increased public awareness around the critical issues of child safety and empowerment. He expressed hope that initiatives like these would equip children with knowledge of their rights and encourage them to seek help confidently when needed.

By uniting local organisations, educational institutions, and the community, the Talian Kasih Advocacy Programme 2.0 embodies a collaborative approach to child welfare. This initiative, anchored by the striking mural at SK Merbau, leaves a lasting impact, encouraging ongoing community-driven support for child safety and well-being.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

SK Merbau headmaster Zahirul Jazmi Sayom Abdullah (2nd left) presents a souvenir to Phang, with Mohd Firdaus (2nd right) looking on

Curtin Malaysia General Studies diploma students creating the mural, observed by students of SK Merbau