On 20 Sept, a charity event organised by local brand Eco-Shop entered ASEAN Records as it successfully fed nearly 1,000 kids from charity homes. The Jamuan Makan Terbesar was carnival-like, with mascots, clowns, games and goodie bags; all of which left me deeply moved. So, here’s everything I saw on that day of genuine human warmth.
Are Malaysians going hungry?
Image Credit: Canva
In a country which is addicted to food as much as Malaysia, it can be sobering to remember that for many people, food is more a privilege than a guarantee. In fact, many thousands of households go hungry regularly, including children.
A 2024 study showed that 52% of children from B40 households in KL ate less than three meals a day. Rising food costs are preventing kids from accessing healthy meals, as unhealthy, processed foods are often cheaper and easier to obtain than fresh, nutritious alternatives.
What is Jamuan Makan Terbesar?
So, when I was informed that Eco-Shop had something planned in the middle of September for underprivileged folks, I was curious. I am no stranger to charity events, but I was wondering just what Eco-Shop could do differently to change the lives of struggling people.
Hence, when 20 Sept, the stated day of the Jamuan Makan Terbesar, rolled around, I drove down to MAEPS Serdang to see for myself the festivities. Sure enough, Hall C was bustling with activity when I stepped in.
Imagine about a hundred tables, each stocked with snacks and sweet drinks. And of course, seated around these tables were dozens of children, eager and glad to be spending their Saturday morning with treats.
Fun, food and freebies
Eco-Shop had gone out of its way to make the day a fun one for these kids. The carnival-like atmosphere would not have been complete without the array of activities set up. In fact, I was playfully accosted by Eco-Shop’s ant mascots on the way in, before I got my goodie bag.
In one corner of the hall, there were a pair of clowns making balloon animals for a long line of excited kids. Another part of the hall was reserved for the game booths, where kids had the chance to win fame (and some goodies) through games like balloon darts and ring tossing.
For these kids, getting to enjoy a bucket of popcorn must have been a thrill. Plus, there was cotton candy! Little wonder why the lines at these food courts were astoundingly long. Nearby was a long table, packed with lovely gifts, such as notebooks, towels, bottles and stationery.
One smile, a thousand meanings
There were also some speeches made during the event, specifically by Jessica Ng, Eco-Shop CEO. She explained the event’s tagline of “Satu Senyuman, Seribu Makna” by saying: “A smile from a child brings many blessings. We hope to bring smiles to many children today. Hopefully, this will inspire them to build something for themselves despite the challenges ahead.”
Also giving a few words on stage was the guest of honour, celebrity chef, Che Sayang. Adding onto Ng’s point, he said, “A single smile may mean a thousand things for someone in a bad place.” He joked about how some of the kids present that day may become online influencers like him one day.
A simple meal
Afterwards, a simple meal of rice and side dishes was served to every guest at the tables. Most adults took their time savouring the food. Meanwhile, the kids were more excited to get back to the activities after clearing their trays. Honestly, I would have done the same.
I left soon after, satisfied not just with the meal but also with the good service that had been done for these kids. It is easy for us to think we have it hard, but these kids have it harder.
Thank you, Eco-Shop
At Eco-Shop, everything from snacks to essentials is sold for an amazing RM2.60. For struggling Malaysians, this is nothing short of a lifeline. This is especially so with how the price of essentials keeps going up. So, thanks to Eco-Shop, many children will be able to sleep with full bellies for now and in the future.
Keep track of Eco-Shop’s latest announcements & promos by following on FB & IG.
You should also check out: Spend RM30 at Eco-Shop this Merdeka & walk away with a free tote bag plus shopping vouchers!
