From Classroom Volunteer to Frontline Humanitarian
Behind every first aid training, disaster relief effort and youth training camp, there are countless dedicated individuals in red vests of the Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) who quietly give their time, effort and heart to help others. They may not always be the main highlight, but the impact they leave on the people and communities they serve is deeply felt and long remembered.
Among them are students, professionals, teachers and researchers, each with their own story of why they chose the humanitarian path. One such story belongs to a dedicated young volunteer from Sarawak who exemplifies quiet leadership and perseverance.
Meet Derrick Sim Wei Khang, a passionate humanitarian volunteer whose journey reflects how commitment and compassion can flourish at any stage of life.
Get to Know Derrick Sim Wei Khang
Born on 14 February 2000 in Sarawak, Derrick Sim Wei Khang is a passionate and determined young Malaysian whose journey blends academic pursuit with humanitarian service. Derrick holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Chinese Studies from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman and is currently pursuing a research-based Master of Arts at Universiti Malaya. His academic interests span across sinology, sociology, ethnomusicology and history, reflect his curiosity about culture, society and the human condition.
Derrick’s path has always reflected thoughtful choices. After completing his SPM, he chose to enter Form 6 instead of following the common route into a foundation programme, a decision that shaped both his academic depth and his sense of responsibility. Today, as a full-time postgraduate research student, he balances his scholarly work with his deep-rooted commitment to MRC, a commitment that continues to grow stronger with time.
From a Quiet Start to a Lasting Commitment
Derrick Sim’s first step into MRC world began back in 2010 during his primary school days in Sarawak. However, what seemed like the beginning of a meaningful journey quickly came to a halt as after attending just one meeting, there were no further activities.
From there, rather than discouraging him, left a lingering sense of unfinished business. When he entered secondary school, Derrick didn’t hesitate to join MRC again and this time, he was all in. From 2013 to 2017, he was actively involved in school-based MRC activities, including marching drills, first aid duties and various examinations. His dedication and leadership eventually earned him the role of MRC commander at his school, a position that would play a key role in shaping his sense of discipline, responsibility and humanitarian spirit.
Serving Beyond Boundaries
What sets Derrick apart is his readiness to lend a hand wherever help is needed. Even though he is officially registered under the Kuching Branch, his commitment to service has taken him beyond from volunteering with the Stampin Branch, Sarawak Chapter and other localities whenever the opportunity arises.
In 2024, while balancing with his full-time teaching role and postgraduate research, he still made time to participate in first aid duties, training sessions and even joined flood relief operations coordinated by the Malaysian Red Crescent National Headquarters (NHQ). In February 2025, he put his training into practice during flood response efforts in Serian, Sarawak, assisting with patient transfers and supporting on-site relief coordination with professionalism and heart.
Derrick’s Message to Future Volunteers
At the core of Derrick’s journey is a deep-rooted desire to help others and understand the broader purpose of humanitarian work. His motivation for joining MRC is simple yet powerful:
“I wanted to help more people and understand how humanitarian aid operates in society.”
To future volunteers or young people considering the path of service, Derrick offers humble yet meaningful advice: “Just experience life — embrace more along the way.”
Written by:
Balqis Nur Sabrina Mohd Hanafi