A PAIR of charity-spirited women hope to raise thousands for the plight of orphans in Malaysia.

Inspired by her parents, Sofia Esa, 42, and her friend Latifa Umar, 36, will be raising money to set up a second orphanage for the Malaysian based education charity Rumah Aman.

Sofia said her parents, mum Mehrunessa and dad Abdul Rehman Dakri, sold their home eight years ago and set up the charity after being inspired to educate orphans after watching a documentary about a similar project in Africa.

With capital from the sale of their home, Rumah Aman was created in June 2005.

They have now set up a new challenge to create Rumah Aman Two, a second orphanage for another 60 children next year.

The new centre will again provide children up to the age of 18 with an education, clothing, food and shelter.

And to help fund the project busy mum-of-five Sofia and mum-of-two Latifa, who is also the area manager for Synergy Dental Clinic, both from Blackburn, have organised a fundraiser.

The fifth annual Ladies Only Charity Dinner is taking place on Friday September 9 in Maida Restaurant, Blackburn.

Sofia and Latifa raise money for the charity on an annual basis and have helped raise tens of thousands of pounds to help children.

But unlike other year’s the event is only taking place on one night.

As well as a four course meal there will be stalls, free raffles, entertainment, auctions and much more.

Sofia said: “Both myself and Latifa have been bought up to be aware of those that are less fortunate than ourselves and help where we can.

“This is our opportunity to make a difference and to help improve the lives of these children and there future generations.

“It also gives our own children the same lessons that we were taught as youngsters and in turn they too will help others.

“We strongly believe the charity work we do is all about the charity.

“Our aim has always been the plight of the needy and not about ourselves.

“We consider ourselves extremely fortunate in being able to dedicate our time to a causes we believe in.

"We wish to promote and highlight that individuals can make a difference and still remain true to our values.”

The Ladies Only Charity Dinner is taking place at Maida Restaurant, Blackburn on Friday, September 9. For information about donating, stall enquiries or to purchase tickets, contact Sofia or Latifa on 07812352959 or by emailing rumahaman3@googlemail.com