The Re.Uniqlo way! Over 62,500 pieces of pre-owned clothing distributed to more than 2,500 refugees!

As part of its ongoing commitment to social responsibility, global apparel retailer Uniqlo continues to champion the cause of refugee support through its Re.Uniqlo programme. 

During the five-day event that took place from June 24 – 28, 2024, Uniqlo distributed over 62,500 pieces of pre-owned clothing to more than 2,500 refugees at the office of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in Kuala Lumpur.

In conjunction with World Refugee Day on June 20, the clothing distribution initiative highlights Uniqlo’s commitment to providing support and assistance to refugees in Malaysia, contributing to their well-being and preserving their dignity.

At the event, volunteers from Uniqlo’s parent company, Fast Retailing, along with representatives from the Singapore office, partners from NTT Malaysia and PKT Logistics, and students from Inti College and Sunway University, assisted in escorting refugees to the distribution area and helping them select clothing items, highlighting the importance of social contribution and the transformative power of clothing.

“We are proud to deepen our commitment to supporting refugees in collaboration with UNHCR. The Re.Uniqlo program enables us to give a second life to our clothing, as well as fostering positive transformations within the communities we engage with. 

"Through this initiative we aspire to lighten the load for refugees while reinstating a semblance of normalcy in their daily lives,” said Evelyn Tan, Legal, Sustainability and Corporate PR, Director of Uniqlo Malaysia.

“We are deeply appreciative for all that Uniqlo does for refugees. Over the years, Uniqlo has remained steadfast in its commitment to refugees through various humanitarian programmes. 

"This includes skills training and self-reliance programmes, and clothes distribution activities,” said Yante Ismail, UNHCR head of Communications. 

"Clothing is not just a protective layer for the body, it also restores a sense of dignity for people who have lost everything. 

"Do not underestimate how much it means to refugees to see this hand of friendship and humanity that has been extended to them by compassionate Malaysians. 

"At a time when so many places in the world have not been so welcoming to refugees, Malaysians are saying, ‘I care and I stand with refugees’,” she added.

Leveraging its global network and resources, Uniqlo strives to create a positive social impact and foster community resilience in the face of adversity. 

Through strategic partnerships with humanitarian entities such as UNHCR, Uniqlo aims to address the immediate needs of refugees while advocating for proper recycling or donation to communities in need.

Re.Uniqlo is a program focused on reducing textile waste and maximising clothing use. As part of this initiative, Uniqlo collects pre-worn clothing donated by its customers from around Malaysia, ensuring proper recycling or donation to communities in need. 

By conducting clothing distribution events and community outreach programs, Uniqlo aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of refugees and displaced people, contributing to a more inclusive and compassionate society for all.

In addition to the establishment of the clothing distribution at UNHCR, Uniqlo has been actively engaged in uplifting the lives of communities through various initiatives and community support activities across Malaysia. 

This includes the donation of clothing to welfare homes, refugee centres, and establishment of clothing corners in homeless shelters in Penang, and Pudu, Kuala Lumpur. 

Additionally, Uniqlo also partners with UNHCR on a global scale to distribute clothing and emergency relief to refugees and displaced communities around the world.

By reaching out to different segments of the community, Uniqlo aims to meaningfully contribute to the well-being and comfort of people living in challenging circumstances and help make everyday life better for everyone. - KitaReporters/Media Release