UNITY FEAST FOR 677 CHILDREN BREAKS ASEAN RECORD

They came from different backgrounds, races, and faiths, yet none of that stood in the way of friendship and laughter as children aged between seven and seventeen gathered under one roof at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) last month.

The joyful chatter and smiling faces that greeted the invited guests reflected the very essence of Malaysia’s true identity — a nation of many races, united by warmth, kindness, and compassion.

Sometimes, the simplest gestures — showing kindness or brightening someone’s day — may seem ordinary. But to those who truly understand the meaning of love and sincerity, such moments are profoundly beautiful and deeply significant.

That morning, as one stepped into Hall C at MAEPS, the lively atmosphere was filled with laughter and the cheerful energy of children of all races. Their easy conversations and genuine smiles captured the spirit of unity and harmony that lies at the heart of Malaysian life.

The gathering — touted as the largest feast of its kind — was far more than just a meal. It was a celebration of love, togetherness, and the simple joy of connection. For these children from various backgrounds and welfare homes, it was a chance to experience life’s beauty in an environment brimming with warmth and acceptance.

 A CHANCE TO SEE THE WORLD OUTSIDE

At the event that brought together 1,000 attendees, including 677 children from 24 welfare homes across the Klang Valley, the writer witnessed the excitement of young hearts participating in the Eco-Shop Grand Feast with Che Sayang, themed ‘Satu Senyuman, Seribu Makna’ (One Smile, A Thousand Meanings).

The joy on their faces said it all. Not every child gets to attend such festive gatherings, and for many, it was a rare and precious moment that would remain etched in their memories.

pic-4

Among them was Muhammad Annemen Search,13, from Rumah Kasih Harmoni in Paya Jaras. Having few opportunities to explore life outside his home, he was thrilled to finally experience something different.

“I’m so happy today. Usually, all our activities are held at the home, but this time our teacher brought us here — it feels so different,” said the fifth of nine siblings, adding that the event allowed him to meet many new friends from other homes.

S. Kugeneswary, 11, from Persatuan Rumah Kanak-Kanak Ini Disayangi in Klang, also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the day with peers from various ethnic backgrounds.

“I made many new friends and got to play a lot of games and activities. To me, events like this strengthen friendships among children of different races and homes. Everyone looked so happy,” said the only child, who has lived at the home since she was nine.

Muhammad Firas Qayyum, 12, who lives at the Seri Semarak People’s Housing Project (PPR) in Setapak, said he was excited to take part in the event, which achieved recognition in the ASEAN Records.

“I woke up as early as 6 a.m. because I couldn’t wait to come. My mother allowed me to join my friends, and there were so many fun activities to try,” he said.

For Nur Khairunnisa Abdullah, 24, a caretaker at Rumah Kasih Harmoni, the programme provided a meaningful avenue to strengthen ties among Malaysians of all races, particularly in conjunction with Malaysia Day and National Day celebrations.

“Events like this not only promote unity but also give orphans and underprivileged children the opportunity to build friendships across cultures and races,” she said.

TOUCHING HEARTS

For popular influencer Abdul Qayyum Halid, better known as Che Sayang Kitchen, the opportunity to spend time with underprivileged children was a valuable and humbling experience.

He believes social media influencers also play an important role in spreading positivity and goodness, while carrying a responsibility towards society, especially towards those in need.

“People in need require attention not only in terms of food and shelter but also education.  As an influencer, I feel it is my duty to share positive values, especially when many look up to us as role models.

“The more influencers participate in and promote activities like this, the more Malaysians will understand the importance and benefit of reaching out to those in need,” he said.

pic-2

Known for his popular segment ‘2 Minit 1 Resepi bersama Che Sayang’ (‘2 Minutes 1 Recipe with Che Sayang’), Abdul Qayyum described his involvement in the Grand Feast on Sept 20 as his first experience working on a project as a brand ambassador for Eco-Shop.

“Honestly, this was a new experience for me. I’ve never been involved in a project as an ambassador before. I like the concept — while celebrating Merdeka, we also give back to those in need, and it’s even more meaningful when a record is set through the event,” he said.

Recalling one of the most touching moments, Abdul Qayyum said that despite coming from various backgrounds and challenges, the children showed resilience and independence.

“I met a student from Sekolah Tunas Bakti who said he wanted to further his studies at university. His teachers looked so proud. Another student from the same school was the runner-up in a national boxing competition.

“I advised the children to study hard and pursue their dreams. Achievements like these reflect the dedication of teachers and caretakers who guide them,” he said.

Commenting on the campaign theme ‘Satu Senyuman, Sejuta Makna’, he said Malaysia’s independence could not have been achieved without the unity of people from all races and backgrounds.

“This campaign promotes unity and encourages everyone to contribute in their own way. I share ideas and influence on social media, Eco-Shop contributes affordable products, and others can help in different ways. Small efforts like these can inspire greater acts of kindness,” he said.

ASEAN RECORD

Eco-Shop Marketing Berhad Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director Jessica Ng said the ‘Satu Senyuman, Sejuta Makna’ campaign carried a strong message of hope and humanity for the children celebrated that day.

Organised in collaboration with the Budimas Charitable Foundation, the event was not only about achieving a record but also about reflecting Malaysia’s multiracial spirit and harmony.

“The campaign conveys that even small gestures can carry profound meaning and touch hearts. Whether it is sharing a meal, visiting a welfare home or decorating a classroom, these simple acts — when combined — create something truly meaningful,” she said.

pic-3

Jessica said the initiative was also Eco-Shop’s way of celebrating Merdeka by not only flying the national flag but also strengthening human connections.

“The campaign is not about how big the event is, but how much it touches the community. From the smiles of children to the sense of togetherness, we believe meaningful impact begins with sincere intentions — and that is the true essence of this campaign,” she said.

To further inspire underprivileged children, Eco-Shop and Che Sayang also visited several welfare homes to share food, laughter and memorable moments in conjunction with Malaysia Day.

Jessica added that the company does not rule out the possibility of continuing such initiatives in the future.

The event was recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the title ‘Largest Corporate CSR Charity Carnival Distributing Meals and Stationery to Underprivileged Communities.’

For the record, ASEAN Records is a regional organisation that recognises outstanding achievements in various fields, including business, innovation, culture and social responsibility.

: