Every once in a while, we here at AF really like to see a car company engaging in an activity that involves more than just selling cars. There are many car companies in Malaysia that actively seek out organisations in need and lend a helping hand. Recently, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia) did just that through its corporate social responsibility partner, Habitat for Humanity Malaysia. In true ‘muhibbah’ spirit, 29 employees volunteered to rebuild the kitchen of a home in Kampung Orang Asli Tanjung Sepat, Selangor.
Volunteers worked together to complete a number of tasks in the sweltering heat over two full days including cleaning debris of the demolished external walls and building brick walls, shovelling, moving bricks, mixing cement and laying bricks. “Just as we are a leader in the automotive financing sphere, Mercedes-Benz Services also wants to play a leading and exemplary role in enriching the lives of the marginalised. My sincere thanks to our dedicated employees for sharing Mercedes-Benz Services’ passion, and a job well done for the work they have accomplished,” said Mercedes-Benz Services Managing Director, Hilke Janssen.
The grateful owner of the home, Dakin Bin Shampan was overjoyed over the improvement made to his home. “I thank Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia for the funds and the employees for their time and energy to make this possible. My family and I are very happy and we are looking forward to preparing our daily meals in a decent kitchen” said Dakin.
“Spending time with the residents of Kampung Orang Asli Tanjung Sepat was truly a humbling experience. Our team took back some invaluable life lessons which will cultivate a culture of consciousness for the communities around us,” concluded Janssen.
Habitat for Humanity was established in the US in 1976, and has been operational in Malaysia since 1998. To date, Habitat has helped more than 4 million people construct, rehabilitate or preserve homes around the world.
About Habitat for Humanity Malaysia
Habitat for Humanity Malaysia is part of the global non-profit housing organization Habitat for Humanity International whose vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live. Anchored by the conviction that safe and affordable housing provides a critical foundation for breaking the cycle of poverty, Habitat Malaysia works with partners, volunteers and families to build and repair homes in semi-urban and rural areas. It also conducts a financial education program and organized community development activities. Since 1998, Habitat Malaysia has served more than 200 families through its resource center in Kuala Lumpur and Kuching and Kota Kinabalu affiliates, and hosted about 300 international and local volunteers. To get more information, to donate or to volunteer, please visit hfhmalaysia.org or follow us on facebook or twitter @HFHMalaysia.
