Kota Kinabalu: The Government of Japan has provided RM157,733 under its grassroots grant aid to Caring for the Future Malaysia (CFFM) for the purchase of a van to safely transport children to school.
Head of the Consular Office of Japan in Kota Kinabalu, Yamashita Yoshito, said the grant is part of an international aid scheme aimed at meeting basic human needs, particularly projects that are highly beneficial at the grassroots level and require timely support on humanitarian grounds.
“To date, we have contributed about RM4 million to 38 projects in Sabah, including this one,” he said during the unveiling ceremony of the van at Kampung Lingan Baru here.
He said they received the application from CFFM in March 2024 and, after considering various factors including its long-standing record of activities and sound management, they decided to support the application to purchase a van.
“This grant aid is financed by the taxpayers of Japan. Therefore, this special assistance is an expression of the friendship and goodwill of the Japanese people towards the people of Sabah.
“I sincerely hope this grant aid will further strengthen the friendly relationship between Japan and Malaysia, Sabah in particular and that this van will be effectively used for many years to come,” said Yamashita.
CFFM President, Saroja Palaniappan, said the generosity demonstrated by the Government of Japan is a powerful reminder of what compassion, trust and international friendship can achieve when we work together.
“For us, it is more than just a vehicle; it is a gift of safety, dignity and hope for the children under our care,” she said.
She also thanked the people of Japan for their generosity, which transcends borders and cultures, and has made a lasting impact on the lives of children in Sabah.
CFFM is currently home to 15 boys aged between seven and 17. These children come from various rural and underprivileged areas in Sabah.
Many are living in poverty, abandoned, neglected, or orphaned, and the centre serves as their primary home, a place of safety, support, and renewed hope.
Also present were Vice Consul of Japan in Kota Kinabalu, Sugaya Kyohei; CFFM Director and Founder, Mitsuhiko Abe; Centre Manager, Mericia Majahas; and Social Welfare Advisor and Volunteer, Kaori Abe.
