Bubur lambuk, a traditional porridge dish synonymous with Ramadan itself, comprises a recipe that transcends physical ingredients–a balance of kindness, genuineness and communal spirit makes for a heartwarming bubur lambuk that nourishes the heart and soul. During the holy month of Ramadan, Charisma Movement (CM) had the privilege of joining Bank Negara Malaysia Volunteers (BNMV) and PERJATI in upholding the Ramadan tradition of making this dish at their charity event at PPR Desa Rejang (PPRDR), Setapak.
The event, involving primarily BNM staff, residents with disabilities in PPRDR, CM journalists and a few youth volunteers, showcased the spirit of unity and was a wonderful example of how different groups can come together to support and uplift the underserved in our community, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity.
Upon our arrival, the atmosphere was abuzz with activity. Two large canopies were set up, under which volunteers diligently divided tasks among themselves while engaging in friendly chatter. Seated at one of the tables was a group of women dressed in matching outfits, their presence piquing our curiosity. We soon discovered that they were members of PERJATI, a local organisation dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities (OKU) within the PPRDR community. Despite having some form of physical disabilities themselves, they were committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for other residents with disabilities, which was truly inspiring.
One of our CM journalists, Ying Yun, had the opportunity to interview two remarkable women from the organisation, who shared insights into PERJATI’s mission and how they work towards empowering OKUs. When asked about the motivation behind their involvement in the organisation, they expressed, “We want to help out others who are in need without expecting anything in return.”
They truly showcased hearts of pure gold and exuded strong passion when they shared their experiences working with the OKU community. This serves as an important reminder that we should be sincere in our actions - to help others from a place of generosity and selflessness.
Meanwhile, as fellow journalists, Amira and I got the chance to speak to PERJATI president, Encik Rosali and PERJATI secretary, Puan Suriah to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by the OKU community at large.
During the interview, Encik Rosali shared a powerful message with the OKU community, emphasizing the importance of self-sustenance. He stressed that, while external support is helpful, it is crucial for individuals with disabilities to cultivate a sense of independence and agency in their lives.
“It is important to be independent, even as an OKU, and to not always rely on others for help,” he said.
Encik Rosali provided a few examples, including a woman with disabilities he knows who drives with her feet, as well as how he himself found success in the fashion industry. This sentiment resonated deeply, highlighting the need for long-term solutions that empower OKUs rather than creating dependency.
The discussions revealed that while material donations are beneficial in the short term, long-term support aimed at equipping OKUs with sustainable skills is far more impactful and appreciated. The members of PERJATI hope to see more initiatives that focus on training and skill-building, ensuring that OKUs have the resources they need to become self-sufficient.
From the interview with Puan Suriah, we realised one of the ongoing challenges faced by the OKU community in PPRDR is the occasional lift breakdowns. This is because many of them experience difficulties walking independently. In these situations, PERJATI members would assist them by carrying the individuals and their wheelchairs up to their units.
“Being a part of PERJATI requires a lot of patience and understanding because of the many challenges such as the one mentioned,” she said.
Puan Suriah added that besides cash and in-kind contributions, PERJATI also encourages individuals willing to teach different skills to the OKU community to contribute. This way, the OKU community can equip themselves with additional skills that can help them generate some extra income. All in all, the conversation was delightful as it gave us a lens into what everyday life looks like for both PERJATI members and the OKU community.
The highlight of the day was, of course, the preparation of bubur lambuk. Under the guidance of Tuan Haji Ghani, the event’s head chef, volunteers worked together to cook and distribute this beloved dish. The preparation process was a communal effort, with everyone playing a role in bringing the dish to life. Volunteers chopped vegetables, prepared raw meat, and sorted the necessary ingredients before everything was hauled into two massive cooking pots. Each pot contained a wooden stirrer that was nearly the size of a boat paddle, used to mix the ingredients thoroughly as they cooked.
It wasn’t just the scent of freshly prepared congee that lingered in the air; it was a palpable sense of camaraderie, born from the joy of cooking together. The laughter and chatter filled the space like a lively kampung gathering, warm and inviting—almost as if we were rehearsing for Hari Raya. The shared moments of connection and celebration created an atmosphere of unity, a reminder of the spirit of Ramadan, where the bonds we formed stem from a common intention of sharing.
The act of cooking together was more than just about preparing food—it was a reflection of unity, teamwork, and shared responsibility. Regardless of background, age, or ability, every volunteer contributed in some way, whether through hands-on preparation, overseeing the cooking process, or ensuring that the final product was portioned and distributed efficiently. After hours of diligent effort, the bubur lambuk was transferred into individual containers, ready to be distributed to the residents with disabilities in PPRDR. This dish, a staple during Ramadan, not only nourishes the body but also serves as a symbol of generosity, togetherness, and shared cultural heritage.
Beyond the cooking, the event also featured the sorting and distribution of food baskets for residents with disabilities in conjunction with Hari Raya. These food baskets contained essential items to help ease the financial burden on families of individuals with disabilities during the festive season. Volunteers worked tirelessly to organize and pack the food baskets, ensuring that each recipient received a well-balanced selection of necessities. The process was carried out with great care and attention to detail, demonstrating the level of thoughtfulness and dedication that went into making the event a success.
One of the key takeaways from our participation in the event was the importance of inclusivity and sustainable support systems. While temporary aid, such as food distributions and material donations, provides immediate relief, it is crucial to implement long-term strategies that empower individuals with disabilities. Skill-building programmes, educational initiatives, and employment opportunities are among the most effective ways to ensure that OKUs can thrive in the long run.
At Charisma Movement, we were deeply moved by the warmth, camaraderie, and resilience displayed by everyone involved. The event was a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and how they can bring about meaningful change. Witnessing firsthand the impact of such programmes reinforced our belief in the importance of collaboration, kindness, and social responsibility.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to BNMV and PERJATI for organising such an impactful event and for allowing us to be a part of it. This experience has left a lasting impression on us, and we look forward to supporting and participating in similar initiatives in the future. The spirit of giving and togetherness that defined this event is a powerful reminder that true change begins with unity and compassion. We hope that this tradition of coming together for a greater cause continues to thrive, inspiring more individuals to contribute to the betterment of our society.
As we reflect on the day's experiences, we are reminded that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a significant difference. Whether it is cooking a meal, lending a listening ear, or advocating for inclusivity, every effort counts. The Bubur Lambuk event exemplified the values of empathy, solidarity, and hope—values that we must all strive to uphold in our daily lives.
By,
Christabelle Lee,
Journalist,
Charisma Movement 24/25.
About Author
Christabelle is a first-year medical student at Monash University Malaysia. She is passionate about healthcare and strives to bring about awareness and positive change.
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