Volunteering in Kuala Lumpur

Moving to a new country like Malaysia can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be challenging to build a social network from scratch. Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people, give back to the community, and immerse oneself in the local culture. Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant capital of Malaysia, offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities for expats. Here are some organizations where you might be interested in volunteering.

Kechara Soup Kitchen

Kechara Soup Kitchen is a non-profit organization that provides food, medical aid, and counseling services to the homeless and urban poor. Volunteers can help with food distribution, fundraising events, or administrative tasks. Volunteering schedules are flexible, with food distribution rounds taking place several times a week.

Website: kechara.com/soup-kitchen/
Location(s): Kuala Lumpur city center and surrounding suburbs
Time Commitment: Flexible, usually a few hours per week

Zoo Negara Malaysia

Zoo Negara Malaysia offers volunteers the unique opportunity to work with animals and educate the public about wildlife conservation. Tasks can include assisting with animal care, helping with educational programs, or maintaining the zoo's grounds. Volunteers typically commit to one day per week.

Website: zoonegaramalaysia.my/
Location(s): Hulu Kelang, Ampang
Time Commitment: One day per week

Refuge for the Refugees

Refuge for the Refugees is an NGO that supports refugee children and families in Malaysia. Volunteers can teach English, help with homework, or organize activities for the children. The time commitment is flexible, with most volunteers helping out a few hours each week.

Website: refugeforrefugees.org/
Location(s): Various locations in Kuala Lumpur
Time Commitment: Flexible, usually a few hours per week

PAWS Animal Welfare Society

PAWS is an animal shelter that rescues and rehomes stray animals. Volunteers can help with tasks such as cleaning the shelter, feeding the animals, or assisting with adoption events. The time commitment varies, but most volunteers help out a few hours each week.

Website: paws.org.my/
Location(s): Subang, Selangor
Time Commitment: Flexible, usually a few hours per week

Epic Homes

Epic Homes is an organization that builds homes for underprivileged communities, particularly the indigenous peoples of Malaysia. Volunteers can participate in build projects, which typically take place over a weekend. This is a great opportunity for those who enjoy physical work and want to make a tangible difference.

Website: epichome.org/
Location(s): Various locations in Malaysia
Time Commitment: Usually a weekend per build

The Lost Food Project

The Lost Food Project aims to reduce food waste by rescuing surplus food and redistributing it to those in need. Volunteers can help with food rescue operations, sorting and packing food, or delivering it to charity homes. The time commitment is flexible, with most volunteers helping out a few hours each week.

Website: thelostfoodproject.org/
Location(s): Kuala Lumpur and Selangor
Time Commitment: Flexible, usually a few hours per week

Mercy Malaysia

Mercy Malaysia is a humanitarian organization that provides medical and non-medical aid in crisis and non-crisis situations. Volunteers can help with tasks such as fundraising, event planning, or administrative work. The time commitment varies depending on the specific project or event.

Website: mercy.org.my/
Location(s): Kuala Lumpur and other areas in Malaysia
Time Commitment: Varies depending on the project

WOMEN:girls

WOMEN:girls is an organization that empowers marginalized women and girls through education and personal development programs. Volunteers can help with tasks such as teaching English, conducting workshops, or assisting with fundraising events. The time commitment is flexible, with most volunteers helping out a few hours each week.

Website: womengirls.org/
Location(s): Kuala Lumpur
Time Commitment: Flexible, usually a few hours per week