To raise awareness about food insufficiency in underprivileged communities, a group of 16 students from UTAR Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FAS) carried out the Love Canteen campaign in Ipoh and Kampar.

Pursuing Bachelor of Communication (Honours) Public Relations, the final-year students who are enrolled in the UAMP3026 Project II course successfully conducted two food distribution activities under their Love Canteen campaign. 

The team of 16 enthusiasts coordinated the volunteering programme on 27 February 2024 in Ipoh and on 5 March 2024 in Kampar.

In the initial food distribution, the team effectively distributed 1,000 food packs throughout the city of Ipoh, directly assisting individuals in need, including the elderly and those facing financial hardships. The students collaborated closely with Pertubuhan Amal Ai Xin Fan Tong for the food distribution efforts.

The volunteers were divided into two teams to handle the food preparation tasks. They diligently worked to prepare a large quantity of ingredients, engaging in tasks such as cutting, washing, and organising them according to the menu, ensuring that the nutritional values were well-matched.

UTAR Bachelor of Communication (Honours) Journalism student Tay Yong Qi, also a student volunteer, shared how the experience opened his eyes to the challenges faced by the locals. He said, “This programme taught me that some people can’t access food easily. It made me realise how important it is to appreciate the food we have.”

Kuan Chu Yie, the treasurer of the Love Canteen campaign, expressed, “It was heart-wrenching to see elderly people living alone, especially in homes falling apart.” The campaign brought attention to the immediate needs and uncovered hidden struggles within Ipoh’s communities. Her sentiment reflects the emotional impact of the campaign, highlighting not only the immediate assistance provided to those in need but also the revelation of underlying hardships faced by residents, such as limited access to basic necessities.

Pertubuhan Amal Ai Xin Fan Tong Coordinator Assistant Adele Siew Li Me, said, “The onset of a substantial number of individuals facing financial distress due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) has prompted us to extend our support during this challenging period. Consequently, Pertubuhan Amal Ai Xin Fan Tong initiated a comprehensive aid programme, which encompasses not only distributing freshly prepared meals but also delivering essential goods and vegetables to low-income communities. This effort aims to alleviate their financial strain and uphold the mission of ensuring ‘A full stomach for all’.”

During the second event, approximately 100 elderly individuals were able to enjoy meals provided by Pertubuhan Amal Ai Xin Fan Tong. Following this, the group devoted the remaining half of the day to distributing food to various other charity organisations.

The food reached various charity houses, including Beautiful Gate for the Disabled Foundation, I Care Center, Pusat Jagaan Kasih Sayang Kampar and Rumah Orang Tua Gopeng.

Leong Kah Ding, Secretary II of the Love Canteen campaign, highlighted the team’s unwavering commitment, expressing, “We firmly believe that food scarcity remains an ongoing issue in Malaysia. Therefore, we hope that through the two-day volunteering programme and the upcoming on-campus exhibition, we can raise awareness among university students and the public regarding the importance of achieving food sufficiency.”

The Love Canteen project continues to make a positive impact on local communities, underscoring the significance of collective endeavours in achieving food sufficiency. Love Canteen will host an exhibition on 26 and 27 March 2024 to showcase their journey and knowledge, with the aim of educating the public on achieving food sufficiency. The exhibition will be held in the foyer of Dewan Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, Kampar, and will be open to all members of the public.

To find out more about Love Canteen, please visit www.linktr.ee/lovecanteenutar.