MIRI: A loaf of bread may seem simple, but for residents at the Miri Methodist Children’s Home and the Miri Home for the Aged, it became a symbol of warmth, care and human connection this week.
Students, lecturers, alumni and professionals from Curtin University Malaysia’s Faculty of Business came together for ‘Bake and Give’ – an initiative that swapped textbooks for aprons and compassion for currency. Their mission was straightforward: bake, share, and bring joy.
In partnership with CPA Australia, Bite Bliss Bakery, and the Malaysian Red Crescent Miri Branch – and with support from T4 Boulevard Miri – volunteers rolled up their sleeves to knead dough, bake bread and pack each loaf with love. The fresh bakes, delivered alongside drinks, were then hand-delivered to the two homes, where time was spent not just sharing food, but laughter, stories and companionship.
“This was more than just a baking session,” said Yip Ka Yii, associate dean of external engagement and project lead. “It was about giving our time, our effort and our presence. The smiles we received in return were priceless. It reminded us how powerful even the smallest acts of kindness can be.”
The event, though modest in scale, carried a strong message – compassion doesn’t have to be grand to make an impact. Sometimes it’s as simple as a warm loaf, a friendly chat or a moment of togetherness.
Professor Pauline Ho, dean of the Faculty of Business, highlighted how the initiative aligned with Curtin Malaysia’s belief in education that goes beyond the classroom. “Bake and Give teaches empathy, leadership and teamwork. These are life lessons just as valuable as academic knowledge. We are grateful to our partners for helping make this possible.”
The project also reflected Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). By drawing together academia, industry and community, the university demonstrated how collaboration can create tangible social good.
For the homes that received the bread, the experience was more than about food. It was about being seen, remembered and celebrated. Volunteers left not only with flour on their aprons, but with the reminder that kindness – in whatever form – is what strengthens the fabric of community.
Curtin Malaysia hopes the initiative will spark similar efforts across Miri and beyond, proving that small gestures can inspire big change – one loaf at a time.
