Varsity, club work together towards barrier-free future
Inclusivity Carnival featuring a host of activities to foster understanding between the special needs community and the public, including tandem cycling (left) and games.
A carnival to promote understanding between the special needs community and the wider public was held by Lions Club of Selangor Community together with the Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya (UM).
The heartwarming Inclusivity Carnival aimed at promoting understanding, compassion and inclusion between people with disabilities and the public through sports and interactive activities, said a Lions Club of Selangor Community media statement.
The event saw over 200 special needs children, 30 visually impaired participants and more than 400 volunteers, parents and members of the public gathered at UM's Dataran Dewan Tunku Canselor in Kuala Lumpur.
The event featured a rich lineup of activities, including bocce ball friendship games, tandem cycling sessions as well as inclusivity workshops and informational exhibitions.
30 blind participate in tandem cycling. Front are volunteers and Student
Each activity was designed with accessibility at its core, ensuring that participants of all abilities can fully engage, enjoy and experience the joy of sports and community.
Lions Club of Selangor Community advisor Datuk Neo Say Yeow said, 'We believe that a truly great society is one that embraces every difference and celebrates every possibility.
'Through this carnival, we aim to build a bridge – fostering understanding, respect and support for the special needs community.'
Neo also expressed his gratitude to volunteers, partners and supporters, saying: 'It is through your compassion and dedication that we witnessed the true power of hope today.'
During the event, a particularly touching moment came during talent performances by the special needs groups, where the performers showcased their brilliant spirit through song and dance.
Various information booths also helped to spread knowledge about special needs and inclusivity, enhancing public awareness and support for a diverse and caring society.
The statement added that the carnival not only strengthened its collaboration with the Faculty of Dentistry, but also reflected the Lions' core spirit of 'We Serve'.
It said through real action, the club was spreading the message of inclusion and love, inspiring all sectors of society to work together towards a warmer, more diverse and barrier-free future.
It said the club also remained committed to championing social care initiatives – lighting the way with action and protecting dreams with sincerity.
The carnival was also supported by UM's Centre of Counselling and Disability Empowerment, Special Olympics Malaysia (Putrajaya), Malaysian Association for the Blind and Clever Speda.
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