Wanting to make a meaningful difference in her hometown of Kuching, Sarawak, Tabitha has organised “Celebrate With Purpose” – a series of fundraising fitness and music events aimed at supporting children from low-income families through D’Wira Educational Centre (Persatuan Pendidikan D’Wira).
The NGO, founded by her mother Jap Siew Moi in 2009, provides educational support, tuition and a safe learning environment for children who might otherwise be left behind.
“Although I am not always physically present back home in Kuching, I have always wanted to contribute in a more intentional way. This year, I finally decided it was time, no more postponing,” Tabitha told FMT Lifestyle.
By bringing together the two worlds closest to her heart – fitness and music – she hopes not only to raise funds, but also to rally friends, family and the wider community around a shared cause.
“I wanted to bring together the communities that I’m part of here to create something meaningful in support of D’Wira,” she said.
Today, D’Wira supports 69 students aged four to 21, including stateless children unable to enrol in government schools due to legal limitations. Beyond tuition and supplementary learning, the centre also serves as a place of stability, encouragement and hope for children facing difficult circumstances.
Funds raised through the initiative will go towards teachers’ salaries, school rental and maintenance, transportation costs, learning materials, stationery and utility bills.
Tabitha hopes Malaysians will come forward not just to donate, but to show up, participate and be part of something bigger. She has set a fundraising goal of at least RM10,000, though she says every contribution, no matter how small, matters.
“With the growing number of students, the need for funding is constant. This is my small way of helping them continue the important work they do,” she said.
The “Celebrate With Purpose” initiative consists of three events spread across two days.
The first, “Strong for a Cause”, takes place on May 23 at Strong Pilates Bangsar, where Tabitha works as an instructor. The special double-capacity pilates session aims to bring people together through movement and community spirit.
Later that evening, “Music for a Cause” will be held at Tom, Dick and Harry’s. Singer Evie Feroza will perform alongside band Lethrio – Dean Sim on guitar, Jared Cheow on drums, and Gideon Yogan on bass – with guest appearances by musicians and singers from the local music scene.
The final event, “Box for a Cause”, will take place on May 24 at Tribe, Arcoris Mont Kiara. Designed as a beginner-friendly rhythmic boxing session, the class welcomes both regulars and first-timers keen to try something new while contributing to a worthy cause.
Adding to the emotional significance of the fundraiser, her mother will also be flying in from Kuching to meet attendees and share more about D’Wira’s mission and the children whose lives have been impacted by the centre.
More than anything, Tabitha hopes attendees leave with a sense of connection and purpose. “Even in a small way, they’re helping create access to education and opportunities for children who really need it,” she said.
“I’m nervous and excited, and I can’t wait to see what happens over the two days.”
‘Celebrate With Purpose’
- ‘Strong for a Cause’ on May 23
Venue: Strong Pilates Bangsar
Time: 12.45pm
Contact: send a WhatsApp message to +60 10-707 7378. - ‘Music for a Cause’ on May 23
Venue: Tom, Dick and Harry’s @ The Sphere
Time: 8pm
Tickets can be purchased here. - ‘Box for a Cause’ on May 24
Venue: Tribe @ Arcoris Mont Kiara
Time: 4.20pm
Bookings can be done via the Tribe app and ClassPass.