Kindness Bazaar brings hope to Kota Tinggi Rohingya community

Mar 28, 2025

KOTA TINGGI, Johor: A Caritas Kindness Bazaar was held recently to provide new and preloved clothes, household items, and essential goods at minimal prices to the community in need. Organised by the Church of St Elizabeth’s Caritas Parish Office for Human Development (POHD) Kota Tinggi, in collaboration with the Creation Justice Commission, Shechinah Association, and Sulaman Kaseh, the event was designed to extend care and compassion to vulnerable groups in the region.

Held at the Kota Kecil carpark and shop lots, generously made available by an individual, Mr Liong, the event became a beacon of hope, particularly for the Rohingya refugee community and local families facing financial difficulties. Volunteers, donors, and partners came together to transform the venue into both a lively marketplace and an information hub.

In collaboration with the Johor Outreach Community Centre (JOCC), under the UNHCR umbrella, a campaign was launched to raise awareness about the importance of health insurance for the Rohingya community. The initiative aimed to highlight the challenges refugees face in accessing affordable healthcare.

The Kindness Bazaar was especially significant for the Rohingya community, who were still recovering from the devastating floods two months prior. Many families had their homes affected, and the event provided them with a chance to obtain essential items to help in their recovery.

The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as families browsed through the marketplace, with volunteers offering support and assistance. The event also featured activities for children, including games and art sessions organised by the youth of St Elizabeth Kota Tinggi, led by Shae Cha.

Many members of the community expressed hope that such events would be repeated before Hari Raya, highlighting the positive impact it had on those in attendance.

This successful initiative would not have been possible without the dedicated support of volunteers from Caritas POHDs in Kulai, Masai, Sacred Heart Church in Plentong, Creation Justice, and the involvement of Rohingya youth as volunteers.

Caritas Malacca Johore Diocese extended its heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved, acknowledging their selfless contributions that not only provided material support but also brought hope and encouragement to those in need.

The Kindness Bazaar stands as a testament to the power of community spirit, compassion, and solidarity, reminding everyone that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a significant difference in the lives of others.