Famine 30

This past weekend, I experienced a great many things on different extremes. I felt true and lasting hunger for what it seemed to be the very first time. It felt like my stomach was just an empty pit of nothing and its only companion was the constantly churning hydrochloric acid. Yes, it sounds absolutely horrible. You must be wondering, “Why put yourself through this ordeal? How does fasting help other starving children?” The very act of fasting does not help other starving children, but the spirit of it will and compassion we put into it does. We developed empathy and compassion towards them, and concurrently raised funds for their cause. This event may very well be the kickstarter for many young Samaritans to actively involve themselves in other charity events to come. 

Go ahead and line up!

The first day started off with registration in the morning and the sorting of campers into groups. Everyone was a tad sleepy, having to wake up early on a Saturday morning, but the feeling completely dissipated when we began a day of fun-filled games and activities. The event was officially launched by Raisa, the President of the Doctors of Tomorrow Club (host club of the event), and Thiiban; both of whom introduced Famine 30 and initiated the pledge. Similar to how we recited 'ikrar' during morning assemblies, we, Famine 30 campers, were required to pledge to fast for 30 hours. At 10.45 a.m., the first game started and campers played a simple game, where each camper had a numbered card and was grouped together according to the number given within a time limit. We were already running around and using our energy. Eventually, we began to realise that it was going to be a long day. 

Let the hobo camp begin

As soon as that game ended, we played another game called the ladder game. It was scary because we had to run in between each other's legs really fast. Surprisingly - and fortunately - no one was injured. Shortly after that, camp leader (Tan Hui Xian) showed one of the official Famine 30 videos, depicting the lives of children living in dire situations. The video was enlightening because it showed us just how easy most of us have it; living in comfort. Even though the children were living in poor conditions, they were resilient and never gave up. They were determined to change their fate no matter what and it was truly inspiring. Once we were motivated to push through the hunger, the station games began. Groups of campers had to go to specific stations to complete the given tasks. Some of the games provided a deeper meaning while some were just pure, good fun. Campers feeling pangs of hinder started to forget their hunger and were immersed in the myriad of activities. We also had short breaks every now and then, so as not to overexert ourselves on an empty stomach.

Climbing a fleshy ladder

The treasure hunt began at 3 p.m. and campers were required to find plastic bottles, newspapers and cardboard for their next task at around 4.30 p.m. They were to build a building that they would personally find suitable to live in. Many of the campers thought of silly ideas as no one was really thinking straight at this point. There were houses with volcanoes to 'provide heat', makeshift wind turbines, solar panels and even a 'Germany' house, where all the German football players lived as well. Laughter rang throughout the Alpha Theatre as campers showcased their well-versed creativity.

Behold, finesse in architecture!

At 5.30 p.m., another video similar to the first was shown and we were asked our opinions on it and how we would work to resolve the children's issues. The activity made us think and actively want to help those in need. Some campers came up with very interesting and clever resolutions proving that they had thought through about the situations many people live in and are willing contribute their ideas to help society. This session proved to be very productive for everyone. Following that, the campers were given some time to relax and watch a movie called “The Pursuit of Happyness” to unwind and rest their feet after a day of running around. As night fell, the game that everyone was looking forward to begin: Running Man. This game was adapted from a very popular TV show and man, was it intense! Campers were running helter-skelter around college trying to prevent their tags from being torn off. Overall, it was tiring but extremely fun. We were all dead tired by the time our heads hit our sleeping bags and slept immediately, in preparation for the trip to Bukit Jalil Stadium the next day.

No sleeping bags? Fret not!

Everyone was still in a sort of daze the next morning, what with lack of food and sleep. We set off for the stadium at 8.30 a.m. and all 18000 Famine 30 campers from other Malaysian schools gathered at the stadium in anticipation of the countdown to break fast. There were some games and activities but most people were looking forward to Van Ness Wu's performance, which was well worth the wait. We finally broke fast at 4 p.m, when we were sleep-deprived and hungry but immensely happy. The satisfaction of being able to go without food for 30 hours and to have achieved it collectively with 18000 other people was indescribable. 

At least before rubber starts looking edible

At the end of the day, it was clear that every little bit that we contribute counts. We could be saving the lives of many people stricken in poverty just by putting in a small effort. From this experience, we all learned just how blessed we really are and how much potential each of us has to do something to help the ones who need and deserve it. So let us kick out hunger and together we can make a difference that counts!

The hand sign says "Feed me."

Written by Jaspreet Kaur
Cambridge A-Levels