Starchild: Why Malaysian kids love playgrounds the most

Michelle Tan Mei Kuan, 9

Playgrounds are special because they allow children to explore, move and use their imagination. In Malaysia, we can find playgrounds in parks, schools and housing areas. Most of them have colourful slides, climbing frames, swings and see-saws. Some newer playgrounds also have obstacle courses or mini rock climbing walls.

Children love going to the playground because it is a place where they can be free.

Li Xin Yan, 6

You don’t have to sit still or be quiet. You can shout, run, chase your friends, or make up fun stories as you play.

It’s a great way to burn off energy after a long day at school.

Carlyn Chieng, 6

For many kids, the best part is playing with others. It doesn’t matter what school you go to or what language you speak – laughter is the same everywhere.

So the next time you feel bored at home, remember that fun is just a short walk away.

The playground is always ready for adventure – and it’s a lot more exciting than scrolling on a phone!

Tay Yik Qian, 11

Here is the second batch of letters from Starchild readers on the topic, Playground.

Jayden Tan Li Sheng, 12Jayden Tan Li Sheng, 12, writes: “I will build a playground that has everything from slides, swings, rock climbing to balance beams. The playground will provide fun and physical benefits for everyone. Families can also use it for picnics. I hope everyone can spend their energy there and also enjoy walking at the playground.”

Michelle Tan Mei Kuan, nine, says: “I will design my playground with lots of space to crawl, race and climb. There will be fun outdoor activities like monkey bars and climbing walls. I will invite my friends to come and play. My playground is big enough for me to cycle around, and I will challenge my friends to bicycle races.”

Sham Jing Yu, 12

Sham Jing Yu, 12, says: “My playground is indoors, making it a fun and safe space for children to play in any weather. There are two food stalls – one for snacks and another for drinks – so children can enjoy tasty treats during their visit. The playground features unique equipment, including noodle-shaped slides and a see-saw designed like a giant french fry.

“Beneath the play structures, there is a pit filled with small, colourful balls for extra fun. Additionally, there is a climbing frame with a soft, cushioned surface underneath, ensuring a safe play environment for all children. This playground is designed to be exciting, creative and safe for everyone to enjoy.”

“I would have a rock climbing wall in my playground. I will climb with my friends to see who will reach the top first,” says six-year-old Carlyn Chieng Xin Qin.

“I want my playground to be safe for everyone,” says six-year-old Li Xin Yan. “The swings will be strong and secure, so I can feel like I’m flying in the air without any worries.”

Tee Xin, 6

“I would love to have rainbow-coloured monkey bars in my playground. They’ll be fun to climb and help me grow strong and healthy,” says Tee Xin, six.

Ho Shin Leon, 6“I would build a bright yellow tunnel and a treehouse in my playground. It would be perfect for playing hide-and-seek and having a quiet place to rest after an exciting adventure,” writes six-year-old Ho Shin Leon.

Kelly Ho Kah Yan, 11, wants to name her dream playground “Capybara Playground”. It would feature swings, slides, a football field, and a basketball court to help children stay active and fit.

Kelly Ho Kah Yan, 11

“There will be a big capybara bop bag and a hopscotch area to keep kids entertained.

“Additionally, a trapeze bar will be included for those who want to strengthen their arm muscles. This amazing playground will be a perfect place for both exercise and play.”

Tay Yik Qian, 11, says: “My dream playground has three levels. On the first level, there is a playground with many slides, a spiral corkscrew, and a suspended bridge that connects to the second level. The second level features a pool and a trampoline, where children can choose to swim or jump and play.

“To reach the exciting third level, children can dive through the second tunnel at the bottom of the pool or exit through the first tunnel, which leads to an elevator. These elevators have built-in blowers to help them dry off and can also take them back to the first and second levels. Overall, this is a fantastic playground for children who love adventure and excitement!”

ITEM: International Friendship Day is on July 30. Do you have a best friend who makes you smile every day? A good friend is someone who listens, shares and always cares. They stand by you when you’re happy or sad. How do you show kindness to your friends? Do you help them, share your toys, or say nice words? Write to us and tell us all about your best friend. Describe what makes them special and how you show love and care. We can’t wait to read your stories about friendship!

Email your contributions to [e-mail] by July 18. Please put “STARCHILD: My Best Friend Forever” in the subject line of your email.

Scanned drawings should be in JPEG format, with a resolution of 200dpi. Your contributions must carry your full name, age (open to children aged 12 and below only), gender, phone contact, and address. Instead of handwritten letters, please type out your letters.