Spokesperson of the Volunteer Tourism Centre, Somaya Ong was recognised for her efforts towards the development of the community by the WIN Foundation. Somaya received the Community Service Award at the awards ceremony in Shen Zhen, China by the US based WIN Foundation.
“Volunteer Tourism is not new in the world but it is new in Malaysia. I want to utilize this concept to help develop the country. Especially in the rural areas of Malaysia which still need a considerable development but they are also amazing places to visit. This is the perfect mix for volunteer tourism” said Somaya Ong.
Somaya Ong
She added that the Government is trying to develop a culture of volunteerism, especially in the youth to help foster national unity.” We at the Volunteer Tourism Centre want to assist in this process and play the lead role in Malaysia,” she concluded.
The Volunteer Tourism Centre was established by a Malaysian based social enterprise for the purpose of attracting volunteers to Malaysia to develop sustainable projects that benefit local communities and allow visitors to experience the unique culture of the different regions of the country.
The Volunteer Tourism Centre is recognised by the Kedah State Government for various projects that have been developed including, reforestation in the Lake Pedu area, coral restoration in Langkawi and English Language development throughout the state.