Project Insaniah: Onwards and Upwards Despite a Year of Challenges

Young students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds often face economic hardship and encounter various social challenges that make their transition through adolescence difficult. Many children from families in the bottom 40% of income earners (B40 group) are vulnerable to poverty and deprivation in Malaysia. Their needs are more likely to remain unmet due to the group’s weak economic status. Official estimates in the 2021 Malaysia Voluntary National Review states that almost 17% of B40 families live with children and dependents aged 18 and below. In addition, nearly 6% of households live below the poverty line. It is estimated that countless more children are deprived socially and materially due to hardship. RYTHM Foundation seeks to transform the lives of these disadvantaged children through Project Insaniah. The initiative is a strategic partnership between RYTHM and MyKita, a Malaysian NGO based in Kerling, Selangor, to improve students’ lives from the lower-income category. The three-year project kicked off last year amid various challenges sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic. The holistic programme coaches students aged 13 to 15 in core academic subjects and mentors them to lead balanced lives and become responsible individuals. They are also trained in ICT skills and encouraged to participate in community-centric activities to develop their civic-mindedness and spirit of volunteerism. The unique programme also involves the proactive participation of the participants’ parents. They are being coached on cultivating positive familial values and financial management to equip them with the skills and knowledge to raise 21st-century teens. RYTHM has worked closely with MyKita since Project Insaniah’s inception to monitor its progress and impact. A recent virtual event outlined the latest developments and progress. RYTHM’s Head, Santhi Periasamy, said the Foundation was proud of the students, teachers, and coordinators for rising above the challenges despite the past year’s trials.

“There were multiple challenges (with) students, facilities, the infrastructure, and disrupted lessons (due to the pandemic),” Santhi said in her speech. “Despite the restrictions, you all attended the classes and character-building sessions and have proven that in your results, and we are happy. “At RYTHM Foundation, we believe that challenges should not put a stop to anything. Challenges should not be a roadblock and stop our move towards progress,” she added.

Santhi advised the participants to continue working diligently through the programme. “You must have the willpower to want to learn. If you set your heart on wanting to learn, achieve, and be somebody, it will happen. It’s all in your hands. Santhi also paid tribute to the parents. “Thank you for your cooperation in encouraging your children to improve and develop their skills. This is only the beginning, and it would not be a success without you.” The event included testimonials by some of the beneficiaries. For example, student Sree Kieshalinie Devi said she had little interest in studies before joining Project Insaniah. That, however, changed almost as soon as she enrolled in the programme.

“When I joined Insaniah, I participated in all the academic skills and motivation programmes,” Kieshalinie said proudly. “The tutors have been helpful and guided us to explore the platform well. “The programme has built my confidence, and I’m grateful to RYTHM Foundation for the opportunity to improve my academic and life skills.”

Gughan Ravindran, 13, also grappled with his studies before joining the programme.

“After my UPSR (examination), I struggled without proper planning. So many students are struggling without guidance and support in their academic lessons. I appreciate the opportunities given to me,” the SMK Kuala Kubu Bahru student said.

RYTHM Chairperson, Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran, seized the opportunity to interact with the students during the event. She spoke passionately about creating and maintaining a positive attitude and learning to overcome challenges.

“RYTHM Foundation started Insaniah believing that children and youth are the future of a nation. “The real wealth of the nation is really you. Hence, we want to see each of you shine. “If we look at challenges negatively, that is what we will always see in life. So, you must step out of that mindset and say, ‘Whatever happens, I will come out of it and head towards success.’ That is Insaniah. Your feelings must lead you to self-confidence.”

Datin Sri Umayal also called on the teens to help their peers.

“We started this programme with your future in mind. Moving forward, I want to see you helping another student. “Be the change you want to see. Stay focused and always move forward. There is no formula for success. You must make sacrifices, face hardships, and put in efforts to achieve success in life,” she added.