Education for Stateless Children
Since 2015
Omadal Island, Semporna, Sabah
“Before ‘Iskul’ (‘school’ in the Bajau Laut language), none of the stateless children on Omadal Island had the opportunity to study because being stateless means they 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.
None of the stateless children had the opportunity to study before Iskul because their stateless status excludes them from attending government run schools.
Our Mission
Iskul is a community-led school and support hub on Pulau Omadal, built for the stateless children and families of the Bajau Laut (sea-nomad) community. Since 2015, we’ve provided basic literacy, holistic education, and community support to empower youth who otherwise lack access to formal schooling.
We believe every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and become a leader — regardless of 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 that are very much in tune with their homes above the seas, so our marine modules were launched to integrate their cultural practices with modern marine knowledge.
Content Creation by Student
Encouraging the youths on the Island to tell their own stories allows them to share with the world, and learn useful 21st century media skills.
Community Healthcare
Besides our community-run Mini Clinic, we provide nutritious meals for our students, supplements for pregnant and nursing mothers, and 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, and so much of household waste has no place to go but the environment surrounding these settlements. Our waste management programme 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 remain strong.
Investing in basic literacy, self-worth, and alternative livelihoods is a crucial first step. Even when they gain skills and knowledge, they still lack resources and networks, so Iskul must provide structure and connections that help them thrive.
A whole-of-society approach is needed to systematically empower these children and break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. Iskul nurtures their capacity to think critically, take ownership of their challenges, and make decisions using the skills and knowledge they gain.
These children and youth are encouraged to take on leadership roles, not only in Iskul but also within their wider community.
Did you know?
Over 200 children are not in school, without access to public education, and at risk of exposure to dangerous activity 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, which 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. The mapping was undertaken by Iskul’s first batch of marine students from class At’au, guided by Iskul’s teachers in collaboration with Reef Check Malaysia.
Success Stories
Take a look at our work on Omadal through the eyes of our students – success stories that 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 / Support Us
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 ensure the safety and dignity of the children we serve.
Contribute directly
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!
