(Kuala Lumpur) — The Crisis Relief Squad of MCA (CRSM) will be hosting the “20th Anniversary & International Volunteer Day Public Welfare Forum” on 5 December, from 12:00pm to 6:00pm, at Level 3, MCA Headquarters Auditorium. The forum extends a special invitation to NGOs, volunteer groups, community organisations, and members of the public interested in humanitarian and social work, to join in exploring how volunteerism can play a more crucial role in today’s society.

In conjunction with its 20th anniversary, CRSM emphasises that the development of volunteerism should go beyond celebration. More importantly, the platform aims to deepen public understanding of the critical roles that volunteers play in disaster response, community support, and social resilience. With the rise of extreme weather events, public health challenges, and evolving community needs, collaboration among volunteer organisations and the community’s ability to effectively respond to these crises have become essential pillars of societal resilience.

The forum will present not only professional insights into volunteer service, but also address key questions such as how society can better prepare for crises and how the public can participate more effectively. CRSM believes that to build a more compassionate and resilient society, volunteerism must be embedded into more communities, enabling the public to appreciate its value. CRSM welcomes more NGOs and members of the public to join the volunteer network and collectively contribute to positive social development.

The forum features several expert speakers from various sectors. Among them is a senior instructor from Blue Sky Rescue Team, who will present “Experiences from Personal, Organisational to International Disaster Relief”, sharing stories of real-life rescue missions both locally and internationally to illustrate how volunteers serve as a vital force during crises. A speaker from the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) will also present “The Value and Definition of Volunteer Service in Crisis Situations”, offering an in-depth analysis of the role of volunteers within the national disaster management framework, including coordination mechanisms and practical contributions. Notably, the Deputy Director-General (Timbalan Ketua Pengarah) of NADMA will also attend the event, underscoring the government’s strong recognition of volunteer organisations and cross-sector collaboration.

The event will also feature the launch of the CRSM 20th Anniversary Commemorative Publication, along with the introduction of the CRSM Search and Rescue Team—marking a new milestone in professionalising and strengthening volunteer capabilities for future disaster response and community needs.

CRSM urges NGOs, volunteer groups, educational institutions, associations, and members of the public to actively participate. Volunteerism does not belong to any single organisation; it is a force shared by society. Every individual who contributes time and effort matters—and can help bring meaningful change.

Individuals interested in attending may contact the CRSM Secretariat at 03-2203 3979 / 016-208 4676.

Crisis Relief Squad of MCA

3 December 2025

-MCA Comm-