For many, the holy Islamic fasting month of Ramadan is a time to recognise the hardships faced by those less fortunate than ourselves and to reach out to the very people that need the most help.
Across two days (25 and 26 June 2019), volunteers were recruited to refurbish and clean 15 one-room and two-room housing units in Clementi, as part of an initiative known as Raya Revamp.
Raya Revamp aims to create cleaner and better spaces for homes. Beneficiaries enjoyed services such as whitewashing and the painting of living rooms in their houses. The cleaning and housekeeping mainly revolved around clearing clutter in case of excessive items that may pose a fire risk, as well as to maintain the upkeep of cleanliness and organisation across these two days. Without proper financial support or the means to refurbish their house, the volunteers were a part of the process to transform their homes and to better the lives of those less fortunate. If necessary, a follow-up was conducted either shortly before or on Hari Raya Puasa, to check on the residents as well as to deliver any gifts or donations entrusted to the volunteers for the beneficiaries.
Stepping into the intimate spaces of these beneficiaries and being offered the opportunity to interact within close proximity, allowed the students to develop a sense of compassion and empathy through their exchanges. Volunteerism puts human relationships first and encourages interactions with members of the community that one may not usually encounter on a day-to-day basis.
This year’s committee hopes that this tradition of giving back will continue on for many years to come, moulding individuals to actively want to be a part of making a difference in our society.
“Even though it was quite a tiring task, the event provided a fulfilling and rewarding experience. It also made me realise how fortunate and well off most of us actually are.” Taufiq Rahmat, CEE/3, Volunteer
About NTU Muslim Society
Yusra (meaning “relief” in Arabic) is an ad-hoc initiative and a humanitarian arm of NTU Muslim Society (NTUMS). It aims to serve the socially and physically disadvantaged in the local community. From events like Raya Revamp, where volunteers repainted flats in preparation for Aidilfitri, to outings with kindergarten children to the zoo, Yusra engages a diverse range of beneficiaries.
