This article shares lessons learned from the implementation of a community-based character education program in Malaysia. The program at Jenjarom Learning Center is directed toward the transformation and empowerment of local children and youth through moral and character education. The stated purpose of the program has been to awaken the brilliance and dignity inherent in every child through increased awareness of self-worth, concern for fairness and harmony, and commitment to service-learning. The authors describe the program's work to develop positive character traits, eloquence, and knowledge among junior youth to become active agents of social change, and discuss how its components may be adapted according to sociocultural contexts. The article emphasizes the implications of character education in building an enlightened civilization in the middle of sweeping changes brought about by expanding internationalization.