RYTHM Foundation launched the Maharani Learning Lab 2.0 (MLL 2.0) aims to provide a supportive environment where B40 teenage girls can access digital education, self-empowerment, and academic assistance after school hours, all at no cost.
RYTHM Foundation Chairperson, Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran, stressed the importance of challenging traditional stereotypes and recognising the untapped potential of these young girls.
She highlighted the disturbing prevalence of underage marriages among adolescents and emphasized the necessity of creating a nurturing environment for them to enjoy their teenage years under mature parental guidance.
“At Maharani, we are committed to facilitating change so that these children can advocate for themselves and fight for their rights. Failure to address this issue could perpetuate for another 150 years with no resolution. There are still women being oppressed and undervalued. Education serves as the key to unlocking their minds and perspectives, laying the groundwork for a brighter future,” she said during the launch event at The ZIZZ, Damansara Damai.
Umayal further underscored that the establishment of MLL reflects the foundation’s dedication to reshaping mindsets among teenage girls and B40 families, empowering them to confront life’s challenges courageously and proactively.
“While historical biases have favored men in various aspects, there are still societal stereotypes that relegate women to secondary roles. However, given the opportunity, women possess immense potential and extraordinary leadership qualities,” she added.
MLL welcomes students who cannot afford paid tuition classes and offers additional instruction in subjects such as Bahasa Malaysia, English, Science, and Mathematics, preparing them for the Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM).
Moreover, digital application learning, including Canva, MS Office, and coding, is integrated into the curriculum. The program also provides support in navigating life challenges, such as public communication skills and self-development.
The foundation’s commitment to empowering teenage girls underscores its dedication to addressing educational disparities by providing accessible learning opportunities for the less privileged.
Subhashini Muralidharan, a parent of an MLL participant, observed significant positive changes in her daughter’s demeanor since enrolling in the program.
“My daughter has become more optimistic, enthusiastic about learning, and adept at time management. She eagerly participates in MLL activities during school breaks and hopes to see more teenage girls join. These activities extend beyond academic confines, fostering holistic growth,” she said.
Afiqah Umairah Asbarihan, a 16-year-old participant from SMK Damansara Damai, expressed gratitude for the transformative learning experience provided by MLL.
“Maharani Learning Lab isn’t just a place to acquire knowledge; it’s where my skills are honed. With guidance and support, I’ve learned to overcome internal barriers. I feel prepared to challenge societal stereotypes in the future. Here, my voice is heard, and my peers accept my flaws as we work together towards improvement,” she said.
MLL’s inception in 2015 with a learning center in Sungai Siput, Perak, marked the beginning of its journey to empower children through character-building programs. In 2021, the program redirected its focus to communities near the RYTHM Foundation headquarters in the Klang Valley.
The launch of MLL signifies a strategic step towards addressing contemporary educational needs, integrating advanced technologies such as virtual reality, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to equip participants for success in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Supported by the Maharani School Program (MSP), fully endorsed by the Ministry of Education Malaysia, MLL extends its impact to high school girls in several schools across Selangor and Negeri Sembilan.
Since 2010, the Maharani School Program has empowered over 8,000 girls aged 13 to 16, fostering experiential learning and providing them with essential skills and knowledge to realize their potential.
Both initiatives align with the ongoing #RiseWithRYTHM campaign, aiming to expand educational opportunities and promote equality. Through these programs, the foundation underscores the pivotal role of education as the primary driver of positive change in society.
