a. 

To foster happiness through active music participation, cultivating lifelong learning and promoting mental and physical well being among senior citizens in Malaysia

b. Personal fund-raising efforts, support from Department of Music, UPM, financial support from Mewamax printing company

c. 

During the process, facilitators and team members faced many challenges from technical difficulties to communication of participants. A majority of the team were freshmen and/or have little experience handling a community project. To many, the concept of a virtual choir was new and had never experienced a live professional recording before. The technical team were also unprepared for the sudden influx of members that signed up for the virtual choir sessions and had to call for more help. Although there were not many technical issues, 150 participants that were online provided much anxiety to the first time facilitators. During the sessions, with the guidance of supervisors and alumni of our team, the sessions were successful. The participants were active and engaged. Our team members had to also juggle between doing the project and their own studies and work which provided a big struggle. The arrangers of the songs had to do a few drafts due to the songs being too complicated for a beginner learner. All writings, recording and arrangements underwent thorough editing and screening before being compiled and printed. 

During the music camp and performance, the performers had a strong bond with each other and helped each other during the performance and practice. They practiced hand signs together, helped each other in the recital hall. They showed great enthusiasm throughout the practice sessions, and were courageous to stand on the big stage, singing 3 songs: “Tian Mi Mi” by Teresa Teng, “Getaran Jiwa” by P. Ramlee, and lastly “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstong. We also had the opportunity to connect 2 generations and create a wonderful intergenerational choir with the children from the BRCR Rotary home. The participants were also inspired from the performances of other choirs and aspired to form their own choir. 

d. 

• Tight timeline of the implementation of project due to year-end festivities and University exams
• Low turnout rate for physical event due to year-end festivities and challenges in event approval out campus

e.  Many meaningful connections and relationships were formed during the programme.  Facilitators that consist of university students were able to foster understanding with the participants, learning from each other. The participants were very responsive through text, messaging and speaking in the virtual choir sessions, however, only a few were open to turn on their cameras. We have positive feedback about our sessions and they were thankful for the company and happiness that brought to their day. Technical issues logging into zoom were less than expected, with the few that had followed our zoom tutorial or contacted our technical support immediately. There were 2 participants’ feedback about the language barrier as they were mandarin speaking. Although this provided an advantage later on as we were learning a mandarin song “Tian Mi Mi” and helped the rest on the pronunciation.

f. Overall, the project worked well. Although with timing constraits, the objectives of the project were met.

g. 256 people consisiting of 172 older adults, 42 university students and 44 children from BRCR Rotary orphanage kids.

h. The long-term impact of our project is that participants get to share music with each other, having a physical music book and music tracks to assist their music learning. Many participants when on to participate in local community choirs that we have guided them to and also aspired to form their own choir. This project is sustainability through the collaboration with other local music schools and community choirs and the further publishing of the music book.

a. i. Melodies of Mine Project brings happiness to senior citizens, inspiring them and encouraging them to learn and enjoy music together. In the beginning, we saw the gap in the music industry for materials suitable for the learning of older adults. Also drawing from personal experiences of family members and friends enjoying music, we created this project as a platform of leisure, activity and socialisation for them. 

The music book brought joy to older adults by letting them sing songs they loved. It reminded them of happy memories and special moments. The audio tracks helped them enjoy music even when they were alone. Singing in the choir made them feel excited and connected. They met new friends and felt less lonely. Performing for an audience gave them pride and a sense of achievement.

 The project built a strong music community. Older adults had a fun and meaningful activity to look forward to. Singing kept their minds active and improved their well-being. Over time, the choir became like a family, offering support and friendship. The performances brought happiness to both the singers and the audience. 

ii. Melodies of Mine has changed the way I see the world in many ways.

I have learned that music is more than just entertainment—it is a powerful tool for healing, connection, and joy. Seeing older adults light up when they sing has shown me how deeply music touches the heart. It brings back memories, creates new friendships, and gives people a sense of purpose.

This project has also made me more aware of the struggles older adults face, like loneliness and feeling forgotten. It has taught me the importance of creating spaces where they feel valued and included. I now see how small actions, like singing together, can make a big difference in someone’s life.

Personally, Melodies of Mine has made me more patient, compassionate, and grateful. It has shown me that happiness is not just about big achievements, but about simple moments of connection. It has also deepened my love for music and its ability to bring people together. This project has not only changed the lives of others—it has changed me too.

b. "Melodies of Mine has shown me the incredible power of music to bring joy, heal hearts, and create lasting connections. The most important thing I learned is that even small moments—like singing together—can make a big difference in someone’s life." - Chong Yuet

"Melodies of Mine has showed me how music can bridge generations, bring comfort, and create a sense of belonging. Seeing the joy on the faces of older adults as they sang reminded me that music is not just about melody—it is about memories, emotions, and human connection. The most important thing I learned is that even small acts, like sharing a song, can bring deep happiness and make people feel seen, valued, and loved." - Chen Xi