ENHANCING STUDENTS’ ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS THROUGH INTERACTIVE AND COMMUNICATIVE LEARNING ACTIVITIES: AN INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM AT ASRAMA KASIH YBK, MALAYSIA

Abstract

This community service program aimed to provide English language learning opportunities for students at Asrama Kasih YBK, Malaysia, through interactive and communicative activities. The program involved 25 students aged 13–17 years and was conducted over one month. The activities were designed in response to students’ observed difficulties in using English vocabulary and their limited confidence in speaking. The program included English language games, everyday conversation practice, vocabulary-building exercises, reading, and writing. A descriptive approach was used to document the implementation of the activities through direct observation, written field notes, photographs, learning materials, and program reports. The activities gave students opportunities to engage with spoken and written English in different learning situations. The program also provided practical experience for the community service team in organizing English learning activities according to students’ needs. However, because the program did not use standardized pre-tests, post-tests, or other quantitative assessments, measurable improvements in students’ English proficiency could not be established. The experience highlights the importance of providing meaningful opportunities for students to practise English in a supportive learning environment. Future programs should incorporate clearer learning objectives and simple assessment tools to document students’ progress more systematically.