MALAYSIA WOLRD INTRODUCES NEW PROGRAMS, ACTIVITIES TO LOCAL YOUTH
Malaysia World
618-267-8168
Malaysia World Organization | Centralia IL | Facebook
Providing programs and activities meant to aid and guide local youth, Malaysia World is a new non-profit with goals of making a difference in the community.
Launched in 2022 by founder, Sabrina McClain, Malaysia World has maintained its own dance team since its inceptions, adding a mentoring program in 2024.
“This is something that is meant to be meaningful and help at-risk youth,” said McClain, a St. Louis native who relocated to Centralia in 2013. “I built this organization to show these kids that there are people out here to love and support them, that will help them through things and provide activities and programs that will assist them with their futures.”
Originally operated out of McClain’s residence, Malaysia World has since moved its dance practices and mentoring program to the Centralia Community Youth Center. The organization also contributes to some of the youth center’s offerings, including its tutoring program.
“We don’t duplicate anything, but we do assist with existing programs,” said McClain. “We do our mentoring program ever other Sunday at the youth center. We do our dance practices there, too. Josh [Favors] and the youth center board have very graciously let us use the space.”
McClain’s husband, Jelani, who serves as president of Malaysia World, said the non-profit is also dedicated to providing children with many of the soft skills required for everyday life.
“This organization is about trying to teach some life skills along the way,” Jelani said. “Like building a resume, how to conduct yourself in a job interview, the initial steps of appearance and how to carry yourself, and how to talk to a person respectfully. That’s what we want to implement here.”
McClain said she and Jelani have a permanent location in mind, which would house all of Malaysia World’s operations, and that they hope to make the move in the not-too-distant future.
Malaysia World is named in honor of McClain’s late niece, who tragically passed away in February of 2015. Malaysia is featured on the organization’s logos.
Those wishing to join or assist Malaysia World may contact McClain by phone at 618-267-8168 or through the organization’s Facebook page.
