Water for Life

Nestled in the lush landscapes of Sabah, Malaysia, is the village of Pekan Pensiangan. Beneath its serene façade, however, lay the challenge of accessing clean water—a fundamental necessity for its predominantly Orang Murut community. To meet this need, Jebsen & Jessen, in collaboration with EcoKnights, embarked on a mission to bring clean water to this remote village and change the lives of 30 resident families.

A team of 22 dedicated volunteers embarked on this journey, organised as part of Jebsen & Jessen’s flagship CSR programme, Meet a Need.

After a series of flights, bus rides, and a rugged four-wheel drive through challenging terrain, the volunteers immediately rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Their first task was to expand the village dam to enhance the access to clean water. Over the next few days, they collected sand and rocks, traversing dense jungle trails to bolster the dam’s capacity. With each step, our volunteers toiled in hard labour, working collaboratively, for the betterment of the villagers.

Next, they dug canals and laid pipes, ensuring the seamless flow of clean water to the village, and distributed portable water filters to all the families. Our volunteers also painted the outdoor meeting area of SK Pekan Pensiangan K9 with bright and invigorating colours, inspiring and encouraging children to learn in a cheerful environment.

Beyond practical assistance, the expedition fostered cultural exchange and unity. Moments of joy and celebration punctuated the hard work, as volunteers and villagers shared meals, performances, and traditions.

As the project culminated, and clean water flowed through the pipes, it was time for our volunteers to leave. Emotional farewells marked the end of the journey, underscoring the bonds forged and the lives touched in such a short span of time.

Reflecting on this transformative experience, our volunteers recount not just memories but a profound sense of fulfilment. Their accomplishment at Pekan Pensiangan is testament that with compassion, collective action, and determination, each one of us can contribute to a brighter tomorrow for everyone.