Education for the Stateless Children
Since 2015
Omadal Island, Semporna, Sabah, Malaysia
Being stateless means the children on Omadal Island don’t have access to public education.
Reality for the Stateless
The majority of over 150 stateless households on Pulau Omadal suffer destitute living conditions. They lack basic amenities like food, clean water, electricity, sanitation, and medical access. Their children suffer from malnutrition, and many resort to begging tourists for food or money.
Our Mission
Iskul (‘school’ in the Bajau Laut language) is a community-led school. It serves as a support hub for the stateless children and families of the Bajau Laut (sea-nomad) community.
Since 2015, we have provided basic literacy and holistic education. We also offer community support to empower youth who otherwise lack access to formal schooling.
We believe every child deserves the chance to learn. They should also have the opportunity to grow and become a leader. This should be true regardless of their background or documentation status.
What we do
Lessons
Students have daily lessons on Malay and Mathematics. Advanced students learn English through virtual tutors.
Student Development
Our curriculum includes development programmes in cultural and performance arts.
Marine Stewardship
The Bajau Laut are a community very much in tune with their homes above the seas. We launched our marine modules to integrate their cultural practices with modern marine knowledge.
Content Creation by Student
Encouraging the youths on the Island to tell their own stories helps them share with the world. They also learn useful 21st century media skills.
Community Healthcare
Besides our community-run Mini Clinic, we supply nutritious meals for our students. We offer supplements for pregnant and nursing mothers. We also run personal hygiene and health campaigns. We have also had mental health workshops for students and staff.
Waste Management
Waste disposal services are scarce in rural parts of Sabah. As a result, much of the household waste has no place to go but the environment surrounding these settlements. Our waste management program provides a safe avenue for island residents to dispose of their trash.
Why Iskul Matters
Bridging a gap
Many Bajau Laut children are stateless and barred from public schools — Iskul is often their only opportunity.
Empower community
Former students become “little teachers,” contributing back to their community.
Holistic support
We don’t just teach — we care for health, basic needs, and community well-being.
Hope for the future
Through education and care, we nurture future leaders who can champion rights and dignity for their people.
Future & Sustainability
Building capacity takes time, especially in a community deprived of basic human rights and dignity. These children do not have the same access to nationality, education, and healthcare as others, but their spirits stay strong.
Investing in basic literacy, self-worth, and different livelihoods is a crucial first step. Even when they gain skills and knowledge, they still lack resources and networks. Iskul must give structure. It also needs to offer connections that help them thrive.
A whole-of-society approach is needed to systematically empower these children and break the cycle of inter-generational poverty. Iskul nurtures their capacity to think critically. They learn to take ownership of their challenges. They also make decisions using the skills and knowledge they gain.
These children and youth are encouraged to take on leadership roles. They do this not only in Iskul but also within their wider community.
Did you know?
Over 200 children are not in school. They do not have access to public education. They are at risk of exposure to dangerous activities like glue sniffing.
Lack of healthcare and resources; both physical and mental health issues are left unaddressed.
Waste management services are simply unavailable to the Bajau Laut, leaving their island and wildlife in danger of pollution.
Explore Omadal Island
The map has recorded the names of marine life in the Bajau language. This is important to the Bajau community’s culture. It speaks to the importance of traditional knowledge in protecting our oceans.
The project is funded by UNDP SGP’s ICCA in 2022-2023.
his map documents the vibrant marine life and ecosystems surrounding Omadal, offering valuable insights for conservation efforts. Iskul’s first batch of marine students from class At’au undertook the mapping. They were guided by Iskul’s teachers. This was in collaboration with Reef Check Malaysia.
Success Stories
Take a look at our work on Omadal through the eyes of our students. These are success stories. They make every bit of effort worth it!
Iskul on YouTube
Subscribe & watch our videos to contribute directly towards financing Iskul and our projects!
Our content creation team gives our students the opportunity to tell their own stories and learn media skills.
Get Involved
Donate
Your contribution will help fund our work in caring for the stateless community.
Volunteer
We are always in need of different skillsets. Let us know how you can help.
Spread the Word
Read our guidelines to confirm the safety and dignity of the children.
Contribute
Your contribution will help fund our work in caring for the stateless community.
Bank: Public Bank
Account Number: 3216514631
Account Name: Persatuan Pendidikan Bajau Laut
(Iskul Sama diLaut Omadal)
Please email your transfer receipt & the donation purpose to info@iskul.my to let us know! Every bit of help makes all the difference to us!
