Special Olympics Malaysia and UKM Collaborate for Healthy Athletes Screening Program
This past weekend, Special Olympics Malaysia joined hands with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) to host a remarkable Healthy Athletes Screening Program. Held at the UKM Kuala Lumpur Campus on Saturday, 30th November 2024, from 8 AM to 4 PM, the event saw the participation of over 85 athletes with intellectual disabilities who benefited from expert health screenings and consultations.
A Unified Effort for Health and Inclusion
This initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts between Special Olympics Malaysia and UKM. Supported generously by Procter & Gamble Malaysia and Watson'S Malaysia as sponsors, the event embodied the shared commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The screenings were conducted across three key health disciplines:
- FitFeet (Podiatry): Ensuring foot health and comfort.
- Opening Eyes (Optometric): Focusing on vision care and eye health.
- FunFitness (Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy): Promoting physical fitness and overall well-being.
These services were facilitated by 11 clinical directors, accompanied by a dedicated team of over 100 volunteers from both UKM and Special Olympics Malaysia. Together, they created a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for the athletes.
A Milestone in Partnership
Adding a significant milestone to the day’s achievements was the signing of a collaboration agreement between UKM and Special Olympics Malaysia. The agreement was formalized by:
- YBhg. Prof. Dato’ Gs. Ts. Dr. Mohd Ekhwan Hj. Toriman, Vice Chancellor of UKM, represented at the signing ceremony by YBhg. Prof. Dato’ Dr. Hanafiah Bin Harunarashid, Pro Vice Chancellor, in the presence of Prof. Dr. Suzana Binti Shahar, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, UKM.
- Mr. Bong Koi Sin, President of Special Olympics Malaysia, in the presence of Ms. Connie Yee, National Director of Special Olympics Malaysia.
This collaboration underscores a shared vision to champion the health and rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Gratitude and Acknowledgments
Special Olympics Malaysia extends its heartfelt gratitude to UKM, Procter & Gamble Malaysia, and Watson Malaysia for their unwavering support. The event also owes its success to the remarkable volunteers whose dedication and expertise made a meaningful impact on the athletes.
This Healthy Athletes Screening was not just about health—it was a celebration of inclusion, unity, and the boundless potential of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Together, we continue to make strides toward a healthier, more inclusive future for all.
