Serdang: They came from different backgrounds, races, and faiths, yet none of that stood in the way of friendship and laughter as children aged between seven and seventeen gathered under one roof at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) last month.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the joyful chatter and smiling faces that greeted the invited guests reflected the very essence of Malaysia’s true identity – a nation of many races, united by warmth, kindness, and compassion. Sometimes, the simplest gestures – showing kindness or brightening someone’s day – may seem ordinary. But to those who truly understand the meaning of love and sincerity, such moments are profoundly beautiful and deeply significant.

That morning, as one stepped into Hall C at MAEPS, the lively atmosphere was filled with laughter and the cheerful energy of children of all races. Their easy conversations and genuine smiles captured the spirit of unity and harmony that lies at the heart of Malaysian life. The gathering – touted as the largest feast of its kind – was far more than just a meal. It was a celebration of love, togetherness, and the simple joy of connection. For these children from various backgrounds and welfare homes, it was a chance to experience life’s beauty in an environment brimming with warmth and acceptance.

At the event that brought together 1,000 attendees, including 677 children from 24 welfare homes across the Klang Valley, the writer witnessed the excitement of young hearts participating in the Eco-Shop Grand Feast with Che Sayang, themed ‘Satu Senyuman, Seribu Makna’ (One Smile, A Thousand Meanings). The joy on their faces said it all. Not every child gets to attend such festive gatherings, and for many, it was a rare and precious moment that would remain etched in their memories.

Among them was Muhammad Annemen Search, 13, from Rumah Kasih Harmoni in Paya Jaras. Having few opportunities to explore life outside his home, he was thrilled to finally experience something different. “I’m so happy today. Usually, all our activities are held at the home, but this time our teacher brought us here – it feels so different,” said the fifth of nine siblings, adding that the event allowed him to meet many new friends from other homes.

S. Kugeneswary, 11, from Persatuan Rumah Kanak-Kanak Ini Disayangi in Klang, also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the day with peers from various ethnic backgrounds. “I made many new friends and got to play a lot of games and activities. To me, events like this strengthen friendships among children of different races and homes. Everyone looked so happy,” said the only child, who has lived at the home since she was nine.

Muhammad Firas Qayyum, 12, who lives at the Seri Semarak People’s Housing Project (PPR) in Setapak, said he was excited to take part in the event, which achieved recognition in the ASEAN Records. “I woke up as early as 6 a.m. because I couldn’t wait to come. My mother allowed me to join my friends, and there were so many fun activities to try,” he said.

For Nur Khairunnisa Abdullah, 24, a caretaker at Rumah Kasih Harmoni, the programme provided a meaningful avenue to strengthen ties among Malaysians of all races, particularly in conjunction with Malaysia Day and National Day celebrations. “Events like this not only promote unity but also give orphans and underprivileged children the opportunity to build friendships across cultures and races,” she said.

For popular influencer Abdul Qayyum Halid, better known as Che Sayang Kitchen, the opportunity to spend time with underprivileged children was a valuable and humbling experience. He believes social media influencers also play an important role in spreading positivity and goodness, while carrying a responsibility towards society, especially towards those in need. “People in need require attention not only in terms of food and shelter but also education. As an influencer, I feel it is my duty to share positive values, especially when many look up to us as role models.”

Eco-Shop Marketing Berhad Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director Jessica Ng said the ‘Satu Senyuman, Sejuta Makna’ campaign carried a strong message of hope and humanity for the children celebrated that day. Organised in collaboration with the Budimas Charitable Foundation, the event was not only about achieving a record but also about reflecting Malaysia’s multiracial spirit and harmony.

The event was recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the title ‘Largest Corporate CSR Charity Carnival Distributing Meals and Stationery to Underprivileged Communities.’ For the record, ASEAN Records is a regional organisation that recognises outstanding achievements in various fields, including business, innovation, culture, and social responsibility.