Students and staff of INTI International College Penang (IICP) have refurbished the mini library at Wisma Yatim Lelaki Islam Pulau Pinang, creating a renewed space for 23 boys aged 8 to 17 to read, study, and grow.
The project, carried out in the days leading up to 5 August 2025, was a joint initiative by the IICP Library, the Student Affairs Office (SAO), and Student Counselling Services (SCS). Volunteers cleaned and decorated the room, repaired furniture, and added age-appropriate books to the shelves. Rugs, cushions, and educational posters were introduced to make the room more welcoming, while icebreaker activities encouraged the boys to use the library from the very start.
Student volunteers from INTI International College Penang prepare the new information board as part of efforts to refurbish the mini library at Wisma Yatim Lelaki Islam Pulau Pinang.
Chief Librarian and project leader, Mohamad Faris Abdul Kadir, said the initiative was driven by the team’s desire to create a better learning environment for the boys. “When we first visited, we noticed the library was outdated and underused. We knew that a vibrant, welcoming space filled with books and learning materials could really help motivate the children and show them that their education and growth matter,” he said.
The impact was quickly felt at the home. Supervisor Muhammad Izzuddin Mohd Amin stated that the library had been in poor condition before the refurbishment. “Many of the books were outdated, and the furniture was old and damaged. The space didn’t feel inviting or comfortable, so most of the boys didn’t spend much time there. It wasn’t being used to its full potential as a learning space,” he said.
He added that the transformation had sparked immediate interest. “The boys were immediately excited and curious about the new library. They loved the bright colours, soft cushions, and new books. Many of them started going to the library daily, either to read, do their homework, or relax in the cosy environment. It has quickly become one of their favourite spaces in the home.”
Boys from Wisma Yatim Lelaki Islam Pulau Pinang leave colourful handprints on the ‘Mini Library Project’ tree banner, marking their excitement and ownership of the refreshed space.
For the student volunteers, the project was equally meaningful. “It was a truly meaningful and heartwarming experience,” said Maheshwari A/P Manogaran, President of MyBuddies and a Mass Communication student at IICP’s School of Business. “Working on the refurbishment felt rewarding because we knew our efforts would directly benefit them. Seeing their smiles and excitement made all the hard work feel worthwhile. We’re especially proud of the way the space looks now—it’s colourful, cosy, and welcoming. Also, seeing the boys excited about the new books was a big highlight. It showed us that even small efforts can have a big impact.”
Students and staff of INTI International College Penang worked together to transform the orphanage’s mini library into a vibrant and welcoming learning environment.
Her fellow Mass Communication student and MyBuddies Vice President, Rafael Azrith Jamil, said he felt the same. “It felt great, I got to do something productive and see how happy the kids were when they saw how nice their new library was, along with having fun when we were doing activities with them. Decorations and interacting with the boys were the best part. I personally gained new experience, met new people, and my favourite thing was being able to put my own energy into this event,” he said.
From the college’s perspective, the project carried lessons that went beyond academics. “This project reflects INTI’s mission to deliver education with impact,” said Hemalatha Murugiah, Chief Executive of IICP. “Beyond enhancing academic knowledge, our students are learning empathy, teamwork, and leadership by engaging in meaningful community projects. The refurbishment of the orphanage library demonstrates how small acts of care can bring about lasting change. We are proud of our students and staff for embodying the values of compassion and service.”