She chose to work at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), one of the main venues for vaccinations. Her days were long and busy. Every morning, she wore her volunteer jacket, ready to assist the hundreds, sometimes even thousands, who came to receive their vaccine against the dangerous virus.

Toh Puan Fauziah noticed people arriving with mixed feelings — some were nervous, scared, or unsure about the process. She greeted them with a warm smile and gentle words, knowing that small acts of kindness could have a powerful effect in times of stress. Patiently, she reassured them with gentle encouragement.

While many complained about the difficulties brought by the Movement Control Order (MCO) and anxieties about the pandemic, she saw it as a chance to do good. Whether it was handing out forms, giving directions, or comforting the distressed, she wanted to help in any way she could.

During the pandemic, companies like Brahim’s Catering, which prepared in flight meals for Malaysia Airlines faced workforce shortages, she again volunteered.

Instead of serving meals in the air, she found herself cooking in a bustling kitchen, preparing food for those in need.

To her, the pandemic was more than a health crisis but also an economic one. Many people lost jobs and income, making it hard to feed their families. She witnessed firsthand the struggles people faced. Families had to ration food and children cried because they were hungry.

At Tuanku Abdul Rahman (TAR) College, she learned that there were individuals who had gone without food for days because they had no money.

Through the involvement in charitable activities with the office of the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Toh Puan Fauziah managed to secure food aid funds for those cut off from supplies.

“I found out from my younger sister, Faradila Mohd Sanusi, that there were staff members at TAR College who had to ration rice because they had absolutely no money. What was even more heartbreaking was that some went without food for several days.

“Oh Allah, at that moment I prayed for ease and tried to seek help from those who could lend a hand. Praise be to God, Tun, who was then a Cabinet Minister, wholeheartedly and sincerely stepped forward to assist.

“The food aid channelled through the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, which Tun was leading at the time, was what I used to support the residents of Kampung Setia Jaya as well as TAR College staff, including cleaners and gardeners,” she recalled.

Each bag of rice, each packet of food distributed, was not merely a donation, but also a ray of hope from those who cared and wished to see society continue to persevere through life’s trials.

“Seeing them receive the food with such gratitude on their faces moved me deeply. Sometimes, we fail to realise that even the smallest help can be a beacon of hope for those truly in need,” she expressed with great emotion.

Her compassion extended beyond the pandemic. When a devastating mud flood struck Shah Alam, Selangor, Toh Puan Fauziah was on the ground, walking through mud to provide aid. She saw the sorrow of those who had lost everything and offered food, clothing and words of comfort to lift their spirits.

“They needed more than physical aid; they also needed emotional support. They wanted someone to listen, understand and assure them that the difficult time would pass,” she said.

PLANTING SEEDS OF SELFLESS SERVICE

Toh Puan Fauziah’s volunteerism is rooted in love, care and a deep sense of social responsibility. For her, volunteering isn’t only about giving — it’s about nurturing a culture of kindness. Now, as the wife of the Head of State of Sarawak, she hopes to see this spirit flourish across Sarawak.

She believes volunteers play a vital role in all circumstances — not just during disasters. Whether in times of crisis or calm, the volunteer spirit remains invaluable. Often, people in rural areas or city outskirts need help — not always financial, but emotional. A simple gesture of care or a listening ear can mean the world to them.

“We often think that being a volunteer means joining a big organisation. But in truth, volunteerism can begin with something small — like helping a sick neighbour, cleaning up your surroundings, or simply checking in on someone who is lonely.

“In developed countries, the concept of volunteerism has expanded to include environmental care. For example, at beach resorts, there are volunteer groups who pick up litter even though that task technically falls under the responsibility of the local council.

“They understand that every individual has a duty to care for the planet — we cannot leave everything to the government,” she said.

Too often, while chasing dreams and wealth, society overlooks those left behind — not because they lack effort, but because life’s burdens hold them back. Some children go to bed hungry, some elderly live alone and many workers struggle with insufficient wages.

Toh Puan Fauziah understands that no matter how much the government does, there will always be people left out — not because they’re neglected, but because the challenges are vast, and the responsibilities are many.

This is where volunteers play a vital role — those who willingly give their time and energy not for personal gain, but for the well-being of others.

“I believe that in today’s fast-paced world, we need to pause for a moment and look around us.

“Sometimes we forget that there are still people around us who are struggling and need our attention. Perhaps someone nearby is hungry or waiting for help. If we’re too absorbed in our own lives, who will reach out to them?” she said.

Toh Puan Fauziah also believes that organisations such as the Scouts and Girl Guides play an important role in teaching young people to become responsible citizens.

“In the Scout philosophy, there are three main principles — faith in God, faith in leadership and adherence to the Scout laws.

“I believe that if these values are instilled from a young age, they will nurture a more caring and compassionate society,” she said.

Both the Scouts and Girl Guides play a key role in shaping young people’s character and personality. Through their emphasis on discipline, leadership and teamwork, these organisations provide an effective platform for nurturing youth who are responsible and community minded.

As the world grows more complex, young people need strong social and moral grounding. Organisations like Scouts and Girl Guides offer invaluable experiences that foster leadership, teamwork and empathy — helping the next generation grow into disciplined, responsible and kind-hearted individuals.