Special Olympics Malaysia - Blog , NewsSpecial Olympics Malaysia - Blog , Newshttps://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/newsWed, 18 Mar 2026 11:25:26 -0700http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Special Olympics: Enabling Special Needs Children to Take the International Stage]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/enabling-special-needs-children-to-take-the-international-stageEnabling Special Needs Children to Take the International Stage]]>

Penang, 13th February 2025


The "Special Olympics" not only allows special needs children to learn sports and stretch their abilities, but also provides them with the opportunity to step onto the international stage and participate in international games, bringing glory to Malaysia. Mr. Bong Koi SIn, President of the Special Olympics Malaysia, pointed out that while everyone has heard of the Olympics and the Paralympics, many may not be aware of the Special Olympics.


He mentioned that some people even mistakenly believe that the Paralympics are for all individuals with disabilities. However, the athletes participating in the Paralympics are mostly those with physical disabilities, not intellectual disabilities. Therefore, the Special Olympics is specifically designed for children with intellectual disabilities, autism, and Down syndrome.


Read original post orientaldaily

]]>Thu, 13 Feb 2025 16:10:07 +0800<![CDATA[Special Olympics Malaysia honored with a special award]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/Special_AwardsSpecial Olympics Malaysia has been honored with a special award at the Naional Sports Awards 2023]]>

Special Olympics Malaysia has been honored with a special award at the National Sports Awards 2023

A Huge Congratulations to Special Olympics Malaysia!

We are incredibly proud to announce that Special Olympics Malaysia has been honored with a special award at the National Sports Awards 2023! This prestigious recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication, hard work, and incredible spirit of our athletes, coaches, volunteers, and supporters.

This award celebrates not just the achievements on the field but the powerful message of inclusion, perseverance, and unity that our athletes embody every day. Special Olympics Malaysia continues to break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and inspire countless individuals to believe in the power of sports.

To all our athletes – you are our true champions. Your determination and passion remind us that with the right support and opportunities, everyone can shine. Thank you for showing the world that greatness lies in every one of us.

Let’s keep the momentum going! Together, we will continue to champion the cause of inclusivity and provide a platform for every athlete to reach their fullest potential.

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]]>Fri, 14 Jun 2024 16:27:51 +0800<![CDATA[Strings for Hope]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/Strings4hopeJoin us for an enchanting evening of music and philanthropy at the Malaysian Medical Association Foundation Charity Concert!]]>

A Charity concert by MYSO & friends in aid of Special Olympics Malaysia

Join us for an enchanting evening of music and philanthropy at the Malaysian Medical Association Foundation Charity Concert! Experience the captivating melodies of the Melaka Youth String Orchestra as they serenade us for a noble cause.


Every note played will resonate with compassion as we come together in support of Special Olympics Malaysia. Let's make a difference and help empower individuals with intellectual disabilities through the power of sports.


Save the date and join us on 21 Jul 2024 4:00pm at Dato’ Pathmanaban, Manipal University College Melaka, Malaysia for an unforgettable evening filled with beautiful music and heartfelt giving.


Together, we can create lasting impact and bring joy to those who need it most. Spread the word, invite your friends and family, and let's make this charity concert an evening to remember! See you there!


To Donate click here

To buy a ticket, kindly scan the QR Code displayed in the image on the left.


For more information, please contact Jacque H/P 017-233 2992


]]>Wed, 05 Jun 2024 10:35:18 +0800<![CDATA[A Journey through Special Olympics Malaysia's Internship Program]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/Broadening-HorizonA Journey through Special Olympics Malaysia's Internship Program]]>

Broadening Horizons: My Journey as a Special Olympics Malaysia Intern

Hannah Shamsu, 22, TAR University of Management and Technology
My experience as an intern at Special Olympics Malaysia has broadened my horizon. I had the privilege of working with an amazing team dedicated to making an impact on the lives of individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. The inclusive and supportive environment with SOM provided me with unique opportunities while also learning valuable skills and gaining insight into the non-profit organization.

I highly recommend the Special Olympics Malaysia internship program to anyone seeking a meaningful and impactful experience that combines professional development and a sense of purpose.
SO Malaysia Internship
Sean Oh, 22, TAR University of Management and Technology

The time I spent at Special Olympics Malaysia for my internship from October 2023 to January 2024 was memorable as it was rich in experience sharing, guiding, and helping me discover my potential. I gained a lot of experiences and opportunities that I believe will forever influence and shape my professional life while fostering personal growth and development. 


One of the events I coordinated was Unified Fitness Club, which brings people with and without Intellectual disabilities together to have a fun exercise session, fellowship, and non-competitive games. I saw improvement in our special athletes’ fitness status through this session held by the other coaches as well and everyone coming together brings such joy that makes you want to have a longer
session. 


Also, I want to thank our National Director, Ms Lee Min, and National Coordinator, Ms Catherine for allowing me this opportunity to intern under Special Olympics Malaysia. I hope we can achieve our goal for 2024 this year!


“ Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” - Special Olympics Athletes' Oath.


SO Malaysia Internship
Dania Lau, 22, TAR University of Management and Technology

First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to Special Olympics Malaysia for giving me the opportunity to undergo my industrial training. I have learned so much the past 10 weeks. Throughout the internship period, we have conducted several programmes including Young Athletes, Unified Fitness Club and Healthy Athletes.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

Through these programmes, I have made new friends, created strong friendships and learnt to be grateful. Special needs individuals are indeed very special, they care and love you to the moon and back. I also admire parents of children with intellectual disabilities as they have to go through so many hardships just to bring out the best in them. I hope for Special Olympics Malaysia to have continuous support from the society as well as to give intellectually disabled community a chance to participate in sports and physical activities.

SO Malaysia Internship
Jacy Chan Yee Mun , 22, TAR University of Management and Technology

Working with Special Olympics Malaysia, the lessons and experiences that I have gained were unforgettable. It has been a great opportunity to work at Special Olympics Malaysiaandexploring in this field. I have learneda very valuable lesson which is to treat everyone equally. 


The best moment that I have encountered in the journey in Special Olympics Malaysia was during the Healthy Athletes Program in Melaka. One of the athletes in Melaka participated in the event. I met this sweet kid on 14/10/2023 during Hari Sukan Negara in Putrajaya. When I touched his head when I was talking to him, a few minutes later he kept putting my hand on his head. 


Few weeks later, we met again in Melaka, where the first thing he did was he took my hand and rested on his head. A simple action like this touched me. As the saying goes, “Little thing matters”! 


Special Olympics Malaysia is a family where you will never be left out. All the joy and love is waiting for you there.

SO Malaysia Internship
James Kuan Kah Wai ((holding bunting), 22, TAR University of Management and Technology

My internship at Special Olympics Malaysia, spanning from October 30, 2023, to January 7, 2024, was a profound and enlightening journey. Working closely with this remarkable organization, I gained invaluable insights into the world of inclusive sports and the transformative impact it has on individuals with intellectual disabilities.


My responsibilities included coordinating events, assisting in training sessions, and engaging with athletes, coaches, and fellow interns. Witnessing the unwavering determination and boundless enthusiasm of the Special Olympics participants was both humbling and inspiring. The organization's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment was evident in every interaction, emphasizing the power of sports to break barriers and create a sense of belonging. 


This internship not only enriched my professional skills but also deepened my understanding of the significance of inclusivity and empathy in society. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to Special Olympics Malaysia's noble cause and carry the lessons learned into my future endeavors.

SO Malaysia Internship
Lee Qi Yang, 22, TAR University of Management and Technology

It was a memorable and valuable time during my internship at Special Olympics Malaysia from October 2023 to January 2024. There were many precious memories and experiences gained during the internship. 


My time at Special Olympics Malaysia was a great learning opportunity that helped me discover my potential. I gained valuable experiences that I believe will forever influence and shape my professional life while fostering personal growth and development. I’m also grateful to be able to participate in one of the big events, Healthy Athletes. 


Healthy Athletes provides free health screenings and education to Special Olympics athletes in a welcoming, fun environment. Another event was Unified Fitness Club, where I assisted Sean in planning, organising, and managing the programme. The Unified Fitness Club offers and unites people with and without intellectual disabilities to have a light and enjoyable exercise session together to promote inclusivity and fitness. Lastly, I would like to express my appreciation to my supervisor and National Director, Ms Kok Lee Min, and Ms Catherine Yong, who provided me with the opportunity to undergo my internship at Special Olympics Malaysia.


“The more valuable aspect of sport for most people - with and without disabilities - is the enjoyment derived from playing sports and the training associated with them to maintain and improve one’s performance or that of the team.” - Special Olympics Malaysia.

]]>Wed, 06 Mar 2024 09:34:54 +0800<![CDATA[Malaysia bags first gold medal in Berlin Special Olympics World Games ]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/Malaysia_first_gold_medalLee Khai Li and Khairul Zaim Kamarulzaman win the Men's Doubles bowling competition.]]>

FMT Predeep Nambiar - 

Lee Khai Li and Khairul Zaim Kamarulzaman secured the country’s first gold medal at the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin. The duo from Selangor clinched the gold in the Men's Doubles – Division D11 event, marking a significant achievement for Malaysia at the global sporting event.


In addition to the gold medal, Malaysia also excelled in other categories. Nur Syakila Nasir and Safri Ramis won silver in the badminton mixed doubles while Wafi Anas Khairul Anuar secured a bronze medal in Bocce men’s singles.


The Malaysian delegation consists of 22 athletes, including 16 athletes with intellectual disabilities and six Unified Partners. Unified Partners are individuals without intellectual disabilities who team up with athletes with intellectual disabilities to compete together in sports competitions.

Read Full Story Here
]]>Fri, 23 Jun 2023 20:59:40 +0800<![CDATA[CNA Correspondent - Journey To Inclusivity: Challenges For People With Disabilities]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/CNA_CorrespondentMany with special needs in Indonesia struggle to get access to education. In India, millions never have the opportunity to work. But the Special Olympics gives others in Malaysia a chance to shine.]]>

Many with special needs in Indonesia struggle to get access to education. In India, millions never have the opportunity to work. But the Special Olympics gives others in Malaysia a chance to shine.


This is a special news coverage by Channel News Asia's Corespondent uncovering the challenges People with Intellectual Disabilities faced in Indonesia, India and Malaysia. Watch the Journey To Inclusivity video.
Watch the Video
]]>Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:28:35 +0800<![CDATA[U Mobile supports team Malaysia to Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/Umobile-support-SOMU Mobile, the data-centric and award-winning telco, is proud to announce that it is the main sponsor of the Special Olympics Malaysia (SOM) team.]]>
From left, standing: Lee Sher Li, Unified Partner; David Foo, SOM Committee; Connie Yee, National Director; Bernard Lee, Head of U Mobile Brand &amp; Marketing Services; Navin Manian, U Mobile Chief Marketing Officer; Dr Sivanesan Govindasamy, Head of Delegation and Deputy President of Special Olympics Malaysia; Bong Koi Sin, Assistant Head of Delegation and Sports Director of Special Olympics Malaysia; Lee Min, National Coordinator. From left, standing: Lee Sher Li, Unified Partner; David Foo, SOM Committee; Connie Yee, National Director; Bernard Lee, Head of U Mobile Brand & Marketing Services; Navin Manian, U Mobile Chief Marketing Officer; Dr Sivanesan Govindasamy, Head of Delegation and Deputy President of Special Olympics Malaysia; Bong Koi Sin, Assistant Head of Delegation and Sports Director of Special Olympics Malaysia; Lee Min, National Coordinator.

U Mobile, the data-centric and award-winning telco, is proud to announce that it is the main sponsor of the Special Olympics Malaysia (SOM) team. This latest initiative is in line with the telco’s drive to celebrate the unbeatable spirit of Malaysians, such as our Special Olympics Athletes.


U Mobile’s sponsorship will contribute towards sending 39 delegates, consisting of 16 athletes, six Unified partners, 12 coaches, four officials, and one healthcare professional, to Berlin for the Special Olympics World Games which will take place between 17 to 25 June 2023. The Malaysian Special Olympics Athletes will be competing against 7,000 athletes from 190 countries in six sporting events, namely swimming, bocce, badminton, athletics, table tennis and bowling.


As it is important for the delegates to stay connected, U Mobile will also be providing all team members with U Postpaid subscriptions. The contingent will be able to leverage their plans’ unbeatable benefits such as ultra-fast 5G or 4G data and free global roaming when they are away for training or competitions, be it locally or internationally. In addition, the athletes will be enjoying the U Mobile experience with a brand new 5G device.

Read full story here
]]>Thu, 25 May 2023 15:31:25 +0800<![CDATA[Prof Dr. Toh Teck Hock, the Clinical Director of Special Olympics Malaysia, has been appointed as Global Medical Advisory Committee]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/Prof-Dr.-Toh-apppointed-global-medical-advisory-committeeWe are thrilled to share that Prof Dr. Toh Teck Hock, the Clinical Director of Special Olympics Malaysia, has been appointed by Special Olympics International as Global Medical Advisory Committee.]]>
We are thrilled to share that Prof Dr. Toh Teck Hock, the Clinical Director of Special Olympics Malaysia, has been appointed by Special Olympics International as Global Medical Advisory Committee. This is a great honour and a testament to Prof Dr. Toh’s experts and dedication to supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Prof Dr. Toh has been actively involved in the Special Olympics Malaysia Movement since 2005. Conducted more than 25 Healthy Athletes Program locally and internationally and screened more than 3000 athletes. Prof Dr. Toh will be joining Team Malaysia at the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 as a delegation medical staff.

Special Olympics is committed to empowering athletes with intellectual disabilities through sports, and we prioritise their health and safety. Prof Dr. Toh’s appointment to the committee will ensure that our program continues to provide the best possible medical care and guidance to our athletes

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof Dr. Toh on this well-deserved recognition. We appreciate his willingness to volunteer his time and expertise to serve the ID community, and we are excited to see the positive impact he will have on athletes worldwide.

Congratulations, Prof Dr. Toh!

]]>Sun, 07 May 2023 14:02:15 +0800<![CDATA[988 Radio station interview with SO Malaysia President]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/988-interview Listen to the replay of the special interview this morning 20th Apr 2023 by Radio 988 DJ with SO Malaysia President, Mdm. Lam Saw Yin ]]>

Listen to the replay of the special interview this morning 20th Apr 2023 by Radio 988 DJ with SO Malaysia President, Mdm. Lam Saw Yin

Listen Now
]]>Thu, 20 Apr 2023 21:37:48 +0800<![CDATA[Athletes gearing up for Special Olympics World Games in Berlin 2023]]>https://www.specialolympicsmalaysia.org/blogs/post/swimmer-gearing-upAthletes gearing up for Special Olympics World Games in Berlin 2023]]>
Meet Yong Jan, an amazing athlete hailing from SO Melaka! He is gearing up and ready for his upcoming competitions at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin where he will be competing in the 25m and 50m breaststroke events.

We couldn't be more proud of Yong Jan for pushing himself beyond his limits and working hard to make his dreams come true. Let's show our love and support by cheering him on every step of the way as he takes on the world stage in Berlin. Go Yong Jan!

]]>Wed, 19 Apr 2023 22:11:42 +0800