Refugee:
A person who, by reason of real or imagined danger, has left their home country or country of their nationality and is unwilling or unable to return. (Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms. US Department of Defense 2005.)
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Have you ever stop to ponder what a refugee really is? What they've gone through? I didn't. To me, it was just another word.
But today changed all that.
It started off by reaching church at around 9.15am with bryan, sis and nicholas. We started loading the bus (it was packed to the brim with donation stuff!) and everyone clambered on. There were a few who chose to drive instead. It was the bus for me! Around an hours drive with natalie for company! Fun ride!
and then...we reached!
Up Up Up we went with the loads-ful of stuff but thank God! The older kids helped out. WHOA they were really helpful. Bustling around...insisting they carry the stuffs. XD
Yups. There were around 80 kids. Ages ranging around 5 to older teenagers from different countries like afghanistan, palestine, myanmar and somalia. The program started off with a welcoming presentation from the kids. They are really good performers man. Im serious!
Then, it was our turn for a dance and games! A few of us (including me!) got to be wrapped up in toilet paper as a 'christmas tree' one word: HILARIOUS.
Oh and of course....BALLOONS! The kids were estatic about that! After that was lunch, prize giving and a short sharing.
All in all it was a fun trip! and I learnt a few things as well...
Did u know that Malaysia does not recognize refugees? By the law...there is no difference between a refugee and an illegal immigrant. Once a refugee is caught, they would be sent back to their respective countries where they would most probably face a death sentence.
All they want is a normal life. Their so-called home is no longer safe. They come here....hoping to find refuge. Safety. To start their life again.
But then....
They are turned away and even arrested.
Other countries of the UN have started acknowledging the predicaments refugees are in and are taking part in efforts to meet their needs, to provide a new home.
It is my hope that Malaysia too will soon be involved in this.
I'm glad that there are schools like the one we went to today, here in Malaysia. Its a start. =)
Lets remember them in our prayers, shall we?
pictures have not been posted due to privacy issues
