Inspire Malaysia 2026

From May 14th to May 23rd and September 3rd to September 13th, volunteers will run an educational camp for kids at a refugee non-formal education centre funded by Islamic Relief, engaging with the Rohingya and Malay communities.

Highlights

  • Cohort 1 (May 14 to May 23): Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  • Cohort 2 (September 3 - September 13): Sabah | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  • Fundraising Target → $4,000 CAD per volunteer
  • Registration Fee → $575 CAD non-refundable registration fee is required once accepted into the Inspire program

Apply today

Program Requirements

The Inspire Volunteer Abroad Program is looking for participants who have the following criteria:

  • Over 18 years old of age
  • Able to attend orientation sessions and necessary training
  • Sincere interest and passion for helping others
  • Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to work as part of a team
  • Intercultural awareness and excellent intercultural communication skills
  • Able to work with youth and children
  • Formal or non-formal education or training relevant to the program
  • Flexible and adaptable in new, potentially stressful environments

Background

Over 30,000 Rohingya refugees are registered with the UNHCR in Malaysia; however, it is expected that around 100,000 Rohingya refugees still need to be registered within Malaysia. This means they have restricted access to many essential services, including education. Many refugee children have missed years of schooling, which greatly impacts their future and that of their families. 

Islamic Relief has been working since 2005, reaching over 450,000 rights-holders in Malaysia. This Inspire program aims to provide education and improve the skills of Rohingya children ages 7 to 17 through enrollment in an Alternative Learning Centre for Refugees (RISE). 

Since 2018, Inspire has held 5 trips to Malaysia, running educational and psychosocial support programs with local Rohingya and Malay orphans.

Check out our previous Inspire Program activities in Malaysia!


Main activities

Volunteers will go on a 10-day journey engaging with the Rohingya and Malay communities to learn about their lives. The program will give an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by the refugee communities and the importance of access to quality education that fosters success.

These activities aim to provide integrated psychosocial support to the children. Psychosocial programming is crucial for orphans and vulnerable children as it allows for a structured framework for emotional support and mental well-being, helping them navigate the challenges of loss, trauma, and instability. By addressing psychological and social needs, such programming fosters resilience, emotional growth, and a sense of belonging, essential for their overall development and integration into society. 

Volunteers will run an educational camp for kids at a refugee non-formal education centre funded by Islamic Relief. The primary activities will include:

Team building and developing self-confidence

STEM based learning activities


Fun learning activities

Visits to scientific and educational institutions


Volunteers will also pack and distribute food items and hygiene boxes to vulnerable families and gain an understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable communities.

Furthermore, volunteers will have the opportunity to:

  1. Visit local Islamic Relief projects in the area and interact with rights-holders to hear their stories.
  2. Participate in organized sightseeing activities, including visits to Putrajaya, Pasar Seni, and other historical landmarks.

Benefits of field study

The Inspire program aims to provide volunteers with a unique and eye-opening experience, where they immerse themselves in a completely different context than they are normally accustomed to. This program encompasses the “give and take” principle; it is an opportunity to give back to vulnerable communities overseas whilst learning and growing skills in an enriching environment. 

After completing the program, letters of reference will be given out to participants upon request. Participants will also be encouraged to continue volunteering with Islamic Relief Canada following the trip to continue their humanitarian efforts.


Fundraising Process

Each participant is required to raise a minimum of CAD $4,000, which directly supports Islamic Relief Canada’s community development projects in Morocco, as well as Islamic Relief's global emergency initiatives wherever the need is greatest. Your contributions will directly empower vulnerable communities, particularly children and youth, through educational programs, psychosocial support activities, community service projects such as school and home rehabilitation, and the distribution of food and hygiene kits. These initiatives address socio-economic challenges, build resilience, and promote long-term self-reliance. Your support will make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need, where it is needed most.

Your donation helps our rightsholders in various way; $1080 is used to sponsor an orphan for a year, whilst the rest of the money is used towards deliverables in the country. Additional money may be used in other high-need areas in other countries.

Volunteers will be supported with their fundraising through:

  • Personalized fundraising coaching
  • Tips for community engagement
  • Digital tools and templates for outreach

Please note, none of the donations raised will be used for the volunteer’s personal travel or expenses.

Accommodations & Costs

Islamic Relief Canada will cover:

  • Accommodation during the trip
  • Ground transportation within Malaysia
  • Group meals and organized group activities

Volunteers are responsible for:

  • Flights to and from Malaysia
  • Mandatory health and travel insurance
  • Personal expenses not related to group logistics

Pre-Trip Training

All accepted participants must complete mandatory pre-trip training, which includes:

(The pre-trip training sessions include one pre-departure session).

  1. Orientation to Islamic Relief Canada’s values and humanitarian work
  2. Fundraising strategy and planning
  3. Group bonding and spiritual preparation
  4. Cultural etiquette and expectations in Malaysia
  5. Health, safety, and travel protocols

Training will consist of 3-4 sessions (approximately 2 hours each). Full attendance is required.

Reflections from our changemakers 

“One of my most impactful moments was visiting the refugee homes. It was very eye-opening and emotional to hear their stories and struggles. These visits will always be a reminder for me about what it means to have hope and remain resilient, even in times of struggle, and the Rohingya refugees that I met and worked with on this trip reinforced that thought.”   

“The trip improved my interpersonal and communication skills. Prior to the trip, I didn’t know any of the other volunteers. I was brought out of my comfort zone to build relationships and collaborate with the team throughout the week. It also improved my ability to act as a leader through working with the RISE Malaysia students. It challenged my ability to problem solve, make decisions, and adapt on the fly.”  

"The main takeaway I got from the Inspire Malaysia trip was the importance of expressing gratitude and being optimistic. Working with the Rohingya students gave me a new perspective on my privilege and the positive impact I can have on others."   ​