In June 2008 three leaders of addiction-related ministries in Russia had an opportunity to go for a week to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to learn more about various social projects there. The visit was organised by ISAAC in cooperation with our hosts, Malaysian Care, with sponsorship from Tearfund.

One of the guests, Nina Belyakova (Director of Christian Centre “Rise up”, Christian counsellor) shares her impressions:

“The trip to Malaysia was very interesting, useful and eventful. We were introduced to diverse ways of working with addicts in Christian and secular projects, as well as visiting a drop-in centre for people with various social problems. It was exciting to see how professional and holistic the approach used in the Christian centres for rehabilitation of people with addictions is. We were deeply touched by visiting an HIV/AIDS hospice and a shelter for HIV-positive women.

The multifaceted and well balanced program of Malaysian Care (prison ministry, rehab centres, ministering to people with AIDS in hospitals, feeding homeless on streets) gave us a deep respect for the staff and volunteers of this organisation. They are a wonderful example for us to follow.

We were well cared for during our whole visit to Kuala Lumpur and experienced a sincere welcome. We also had a chance to share about our work and ministries. Such visits bring joy, refreshment and encouragement in our ministry to hurting people, and cause deep gratitude and praises to our Lord.”