On 30 January 2020, the World Health Organization declared the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern and on 11 March 2020, it was declared a pandemic.

Today, the virus is still wreaking havoc globally. Many countries, including Malaysia, are now experiencing another wave of COVID-19 that is once again causing disruptions to lives and livelihoods. World Vision’s relief efforts in Malaysia and worldwide are still ongoing, and we are committed to helping all people and communities affected by COVID-19.

As the threat of COVID-19 blankets Malaysia and causes disruptions to our daily lives, those already living in poverty and at risk of things like malnutrition will be pushed into deeper vulnerability. Many of these people are daily wage earners; not being able to go out and work could plunge them into further crisis, raising tensions at home and putting children at risk of abuse and violence.

Over the last year, we have taken steps to limit the spread of COVID-19 and reduce its impact on vulnerable children and families. Because of the generous contributions of everyday Malaysians, COVID-19 relief aid has reached more than 30,000 beneficiaries (adults and children) to date. This includes:

• 42,000 masks distributed
• 100 litres of hand sanitizer for rural clinics
• 3,000 families receiving food and personal supplies
• Nearly 1,000 households in Mukim Tulid and Tatalaan, Sabah involved in our rehabilitation programme

We are continuing our efforts to protect vulnerable children, families, and communities from COVID-19’s impacts. Amidst this state of flux, we will review our plans to ensure that the most affected are not forgotten.

Through our COVID-19 Appeal, you can reach out to help the vulnerable in Malaysia – unaccompanied and separated children, migrant families, refugees, and rural communities. Funds will go towards:

• Promoting preventive measures and distributing hygiene products to stop or slow the spread of COVID-19
• Supporting children and families made vulnerable by COVID-19 through food supplies and other relief assistance

Even today, there is still enormous uncertainty on the wide-ranging effects of COVID-19. After the pandemic ends or when most has been vaccinated, it will still take a long while for vulnerable communities to bounce back as the pandemic has already reordered society and impacted the economy. We will continue to monitor and disburse funds to help children and families get back on their feet.

Now more than ever, we must all stand in solidarity to protect the most vulnerable in Malaysia. Every little bit counts. On behalf of the beneficiaries, thank you for lending a helping hand during such difficult times!

On 11 March 2020, World Vision undertook the largest humanitarian response in our 70-year history to limit the spread of COVID-19 and reduce its impact on vulnerable children and families. This effort spans over 70 countries where World Vision works, aiming to reach 72 million people, half of them children.

As of October 2020, over 54 million people have been reached, over 24 million of them children.