Daw Cho Cho Win is a volunteer malaria post worker for the American Refugee Committee (ARC), Jetty malaria corner point, 22 Mile, Kawthaung Township, Tanintharyi Region.

The ARC malaria project recruits and trains migrant liaison officers and malaria volunteers. The project provides free rapid diagnostic testing (RDT) and treatment for malaria along with health education to at-risk mobile and migrant populations, whom volunteer workers often need to reach through home visits. These include visits to houses in the far corners of villages.

On one occasion, Daw Cho Cho Win had to visit the family homes of two patients who lived in U Phein Garden, 28 Mile, to provide directly observed treatment for malaria. As it was the rainy season, Daw Cho Cho Win had to travel on muddy roads, which were deserted and dangerous at night. However, it is her sincere wish that the community there receive malaria diagnosis and treatment without any cost, as it is provided free by the ARC malaria project.

It brings her joy to see her patients recover and be able to go back to work. They often greet her warmly during her community visits. “They thank me and call me ‘Sayarma’. To me, no other word is sweeter and can bring more joy than the word ´Sayarma’ – a reflection of the community’s trust, respect, acceptance and recognition of my hard work. It makes my efforts as a volunteer malaria post worker worthwhile”, said Daw Cho Cho Win.

Daw Cho Cho Win’s relationship with the community sets a standard against which to measure successful community involvement and interaction. Today, the villagers know more about the ARC malaria project. Since it started, there has been more participation in health education sessions, community gatherings, contests and events.