Our Cause

1Hope Foundation: Transforming Lives, Empowering Communities, and Building a Better Future

For over eight years, the 1Hope Foundation has been a beacon of hope, dedication, and love, touching the lives of thousands of individuals across Malaysia and beyond. Through tireless efforts, the small foundation has contributed nearly MYR 1,700,000 to causes that uplift the underserved communities, showcasing the true spirit of compassion and humanity. As we continue on our mission, our ultimate goal remains clear – to give back to society in meaningful, impactful ways that change lives for the better.

From the lush landscapes of Sabah to the bustling streets of West Malaysia, 1Hope Foundation’s commitment to serving those in need is unwavering. Whether it's an orphan seeking a place of warmth and belonging, a homeless person yearning for shelter, or an individual with disabilities needing empowerment, 1Hope is here to offer help, love, and hope. Our work does not stop at merely providing immediate relief; we aim to create lasting changes that foster dignity, independence, and a brighter future for all.

At the heart of our mission is a deep commitment to supporting the most vulnerable members of society, particularly those who often go unnoticed or forgotten. Orphans, who have lost the warmth of their families, are offered not only shelter but a nurturing environment that allows them to thrive. Our team works relentlessly to create opportunities for these children, enabling them to build futures filled with promise, hope, and opportunity.

Equally important is our dedication to combatting homelessness. In a world where the most basic human needs are often taken for granted, 1Hope Foundation strives to provide not just a roof over the heads of the homeless, but also the tools to help them rebuild their lives. By offering essential resources such as food, shelter, and psychological support, we ensure that those facing adversity are given a fighting chance to regain their dignity and independence.

In addition, 1Hope Foundation stands as a steadfast advocate for individuals with disabilities. Recognizing the challenges they face daily, we work tirelessly to remove the barriers that hinder their progress. Through education, job opportunities, and emotional support, we empower people with disabilities to lead independent lives, breaking free from the limitations society may impose on them.

Poverty, a persistent issue that affects millions, is another battle we fight relentlessly. The foundation’s initiatives are designed to alleviate the suffering caused by poverty, offering financial assistance, education, and career training programs that provide individuals and families with the tools they need to rise above their circumstances and build sustainable livelihoods.

Our work extends beyond charity – it is a transformative movement aimed at creating long-term change. By addressing the root causes of issues such as hunger, homelessness, and poverty, 1Hope Foundation is not only offering temporary solutions, but laying the foundation for a more equitable society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

The journey towards making a meaningful impact is not one that we take alone. It is a collective effort, and we call on everyone to join us in this noble cause. Whether through donations, volunteer work, or raising awareness, your support fuels our mission to save lives, empower communities, and instigate positive change. Together, we can create a ripple effect that spreads throughout Malaysia and Asia, bringing hope, opportunity, and dignity to those who need it most.

In conclusion, 1Hope Foundation stands as a testament to what can be achieved when we come together with a shared vision of a better world. Every child, every adult, and every community we touch is a reflection of the profound change we are striving to create. Our mission is far from over, and with your support, we can continue to make a difference that lasts for generations to come. Join us today in our transformative movement to eradicate hunger, homelessness, and inequality. Let’s raise awareness, spread kindness, and be the catalysts for lasting impact. Together, we can make the world a brighter place for all.

Hunger

Author: Mikh

Poverty in Malaysia: Challenges and the Road Ahead

Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country known for its vibrant economy, diverse culture, and rapid modernization, has made significant progress in reducing poverty over the past few decades. However, beneath the surface of skyscrapers and urban development, poverty remains a persistent issue—especially among rural communities, indigenous groups, and vulnerable urban populations. As the nation strives to achieve equitable growth, addressing poverty must remain at the forefront of national priorities.

Understanding Poverty in Malaysia

Poverty in Malaysia is classified into absolute poverty and relative poverty. Absolute poverty refers to households unable to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing. In contrast, relative poverty looks at households that live below the median income level, unable to enjoy the standard of living considered normal in Malaysian society.

In 2019, the government revised the Poverty Line Income (PLI) to RM2,208 per household per month, a move that revealed a more accurate picture of deprivation. This updated threshold showed that approximately 5.6% of Malaysian households were living in poverty, a higher figure than previously reported under outdated standards.

Causes of Poverty

Several factors contribute to the persistence of poverty in Malaysia:

1. Uneven Development

Economic progress is concentrated in urban centers like Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Penang, while rural areas—especially in Sabah, Sarawak, and parts of the east coast—remain underdeveloped. Lack of infrastructure, poor access to education, and limited job opportunities widen the gap.

2. Education Inequality

Inadequate access to quality education limits upward mobility. Many poor families cannot afford tuition, transportation, or learning resources, which keeps them in a cycle of low-skilled employment.

3. Unemployment and Informal Work

Many Malaysians, especially in low-income groups, depend on unstable or informal jobs without benefits or job security. Economic shocks, like the COVID-19 pandemic, have left many jobless and without social protection.

4. Indigenous and Minority Disadvantage

The Orang Asli in Peninsular Malaysia and native groups in Sabah and Sarawak face systemic marginalization. They often lack legal land ownership, access to education, healthcare, and consistent income.

5. Rising Living Costs

In urban areas, even those above the poverty line struggle with rising costs of food, housing, and transportation. This leads to relative poverty, where families may survive, but not thrive.

Government Efforts to Combat Poverty

Malaysia has implemented various programs to address poverty:

Bantuan Sara Hidup (BSH) and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR): Financial aid for low-income households.

eKasih: A national database that tracks households in poverty to ensure targeted assistance.

People’s Housing Program (PPR): Low-cost housing for poor families.

TVET and education access: Vocational training to upskill workers and improve employment chances.

The government also aims to strengthen social safety nets, improve rural development, and push for inclusive economic policies under its national development plans.

The COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased poverty, especially among daily wage earners, informal workers, and small traders. Many families who were previously stable fell into poverty due to job losses and lack of income. The pandemic exposed the vulnerability of Malaysia’s lower-income groups, pushing policymakers to reevaluate and strengthen their poverty response mechanisms.

Moving Forward: A Holistic Approach

To truly overcome poverty, Malaysia must adopt a multidimensional approach:

Improve education and digital access for rural and urban poor.

Create quality jobs through industry expansion beyond cities.

Strengthen healthcare and housing access for B40 communities.

Empower marginalized groups, especially women, youth, and indigenous peoples.

Sustain environmental balance in rural areas while introducing modern livelihood options.

Conclusion

Poverty in Malaysia may not be as visible in its bustling cities, but it is a real and urgent issue that affects millions. The country has come a long way, but its journey toward becoming a truly inclusive, high-income nation depends on ensuring that no one is left behind. Only through collective effort, data-driven policies, and compassion-driven leadership can Malaysia eradicate poverty and uplift every citizen with dignity and hope.