Budimas is a foundation that is determined to help underprivileged children in Malaysia.
Anne with children from Kampung Orang Asli Sg lalang, Ulu Langat.
The Budimas Charitable Foundation is a noble organisation where the ultimate goal is to provide guidance and funding for orphans and underprivileged children here in Malaysia. Home, food and education are the biggest necessities for a child and these are the highlights from the foundation. Principal Officer of The Budimas Charitable Foundation, Anne Rajasaikaran shares her experiences being a part of Budimas and her thoughts on the public’s level of awareness when it comes to underprivileged children.
Exclusive interview with Principal Officer of The Budimas Charitable Foundation, Anne Rajasaikaran
Anne Rajasaikaran,Principal Officer of The Budimas Charitable Foundation
Could you tell us more about yourself?
I am a 37-year-old mother and wife with my fair share of ups and downs. My family is my top priority and I make it a point to spend quality time with them. When time permits, I head outdoors for either a swim, hike or yoga. I enjoy doing them and they are great for coping with stress. That – and cooking for my family, of course.
What had influenced you to be a part of Budimas?
It had nothing to do with influence. To be a part of the Budimas team was something new to me and I took it on as a challenge. And it was a challenge that I later expanded on and developed. Having said that I also always knew I wanted to break boundaries and trailblaze, as in I wanted to do something and make a difference.
What are the current programs Budimas has going on?
There are three programs which comprise of the Home Program, Education Program and the Food Program.
What are the three keywords when Budimas comes to mind?
Sustainability, compassion and reliability.
Christmas Celebration in Kampung Orang Asli Sg Lalang
What is the current state of Budimas fundraising?
Now, we are running a few programs to garner in funds. By doing so, we hope to educate the public on the status of poverty in Malaysia. With more awareness created, people will find the need to support these programs and donate.
What is something you feel many people don’t realize about the underprivileged children (that they should)?
Most people tend to generalise the issue and don’t quite understand the actual situation. It is our job to educate them about underprivileged children – that they come from various backgrounds and are products of the vicious cycle of poverty. With the help given to the child, there is hope for them to break that cycle of poverty, so they will have a better future and not repeat their parent’s stories all over again.
How have your views changed since being in this line?
There’s a thin line between wanting to do something for the clean interest of the children and for your own gain and satisfaction. I have learnt that these two issues must not get mixed up and one should be very clear on his or her intentions especially when it involves the community and doing good for these children.
Share a success story about one of the children that you have helped in your career…
They’ve gained spots in universities and many of them have gotten through the elementary and secondary examinations, so that’s good for us as they achieve these milestones. From Budimas’ standpoint, if their life has improved from when they first entered our home… that’s an achievement.
How important is transparency in charity work to you?
Very important – if people doubt the work you do then you’ve lost half the battle. Transparency and accountability are very important.
Budimas has held many programmes throughout the years. What is your most memorable programme?
That would be the feeding program as I started this based on some malnourished children I met in Kapar, Klang. I see the effects of this programme and to me feeding them is the best thing you can do for a child.
For more information visit The Budimas Charitable Foundation website.
