KPMG x EPIC Homes Project
Volunteering programme to help build housing for the Orang Asli community
In August 2022, a team of over 30 like-minded individuals in KPMG volunteered to collectively build a home for a household of the Kampung Sungai Kelubi Orang Asli village. Over the course of 3 days, through navigating both physical and psychological challenges, we were successful in building a four-room house for Mr Awi and his family.
Background
It is no secret that the Orang Asli community are among the most marginalised and disadvantaged groups in Malaysia today. Even the most fundamental necessities such as housing and healthcare are inaccessible to many in the community.
For a nation that appears to champion and defend indigenous rights, it is truly ironic that the most "asli" of individuals in the peninsula are still falling behind despite the country's development, with some estimates stating that over 80% of them live in poverty. These Malaysians and are the true victims of political inaction and corruption, existing in the backwaters of social development.
These issues are far-reaching and complex, and while the bulk of the work to leveling up these communities lay at hands of policymakers, the private sector also has a part to play to assist in their development. We, as Malaysians, have a civic and moral duty to our fellow countrymen, especially to those who are deprived or less fortunate. Hence, I was very excited to have this opportunity to get on the ground to meet and give to a community that I had previously thought so little about.
Day 0: Workshop and training
About a week before the project, we reported to EPIC's in-house workshop in Ara Damansara to receive the necessary training on safety and technique. We learned and practiced how to use various machinery and tools, such as a drop saw, jigsaw, along with various types of nails and drills. We also learned how to assemble and safely scale scaffolding of up to 3 metres high. To conclude the training, we had to a competition among the different groups to see which team could build a wooden table and chair the quickest, in which we emerged victorious.
Day 1: Briefing and first steps
On the first day at 6am, we were brought to the village through narrow and winding gravel roads where we had our first glance of the work site. We were briefed on the master plan, and were assigned groups to focus on a particular part of the house, such as roof, floor, walls, and so on. I, along with 6 others, were part the roof team, where we were quick to begin work with enthusiasm and energy. We first assembled to beams to form the structure of the house, before laying and fastening the roof purlins. After 9 gruelling hours, the day concluded and we were satisfied and happy with the progress so far.
Day 2: Muddy boots
The day started bright and early, and though aching and tired, we marched back onto the site in high spirits and unwavering determination. We began without delay, measuring and cutting the sheets of zinc roofing according to plan. We then lifted and slid the roof sheets into place, braving the shakey scaffolding and frightening heights. It didn't take long after the first sheet for us to develop a system, and our synergy as a team became even more evident. It was at that point when our rhythm was abruptly interrupted by the adverse weather conditions, which meant we had to stop work for the day.
Day 3: Final sprint
Due to the early end of day 2, we were now running behind schedule and the stress in the atmosphere was palpable. Nonetheless, through mutual encouragement and persistence, we were able to overcome these emotions and pressed on. After lunch, it began to rain once again, but we continued working, powering through the thunder and the storm. Through some miracle, we were able to finish off installing the ridge cap right as it was time for final inspection before handing over the keys to Mr Awi. It was a truly emotional moment as we saw Mr & Mrs Awi, along with their 2 children, dressed up to formally receive the house.
Conclusion
This experience was both incredibly eye-opening and rewarding, and leaves much to reflect upon. For my personal development, it showed me the importance of discipline and teamwork, including communicating effectively during times of stress and hardship. Additionally, it demonstrated how much we can achieve if we work together towards a common goal, and solving problems collaboratively rather than independently. All in all, I am proud that I was able to give back to my community while learning valuable lessons along the way, and I look forward to participaing in more projects like this in the future.
