How reading helped this Malaysian teen with Down syndrome gain confidence

(From left) Yan Wei Xing, Ashton, Yuen Teng Hong and Too Qing Hui are part of Alumni Kelab Down Syndrome Foundation’s book club members. Photo: Florence Lim

Ashton Tiew Zhen-U, 17, is an avid reader with an impressive collection of books spanning genres like superhero comics, history, geography and fiction.

He is thrilled that this Saturday, he will take part in his first-ever book reading session with friends.

The event is part of the Let’s Celebrate DS Awareness Month campaign, organised by Alumni Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation (KDSF). October is Down syndrome awareness month.

The event will take place at BookXcess, IOI Mall Damansara in Petaling Jaya, Selangor from 2.30pm to 4pm.

The chosen book is British author Roald Dahl’s Charlie And The Chocolate Factory – a timeless classic filled with imagination and fun.

Reading is vital for children with Down syndrome as it enhances language skills and promotes social inclusion.

Ashton, who has Down syndrome (DS), along with seven of his friends who also have DS, will each take turns reading selected pages from the book.

“I like this book because it’s so interesting and has an awesome story,” shares Ashton. “It is about Charlie and his friends finding the golden tickets and going to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. I like Charlie because he’s clever and a good person – he even knows all about Willy Wonka’s safety rules,” says Ashton during an interview recently.

Ashton and his buddies are members of Alumni KDSF and the KDSF Alumni Association Book Club.

While reading may seem effortless for some, it takes extra motivation, encouragement and practice for Ashton and his friends, who may not grasp or read as quickly as their peers.

His mother, Dr Ng Poi Ni, 50, says it’s a big step for Ashton to read confidently in front of others – a sign of his growing confidence and independence.

She explains that the book club provides not just reading practice but also a structured way for children with DS to express themselves.

“Children with DS often understand what’s being said but may struggle to express their own thoughts.

“Thanks to this book club, Ashton has learned to share his opinions and feelings more openly. He used to be very quiet, but now he’s much more expressive,” says Ng, a curriculum development officer for children with special needs with the Education Ministry.

Choo (centre) started the book club to help children with Down syndrome gain confidence and improve their reading skills. Photos: The Star/Art Chen

The mother of two adds that Ashton has been practising hard, reading aloud weekly with guidance from facilitators.

“I have seen how his focus and speech have improved. Most importantly, he enjoys it – and he’s proud of what he can do.”

The book club was set up in 2022 by freelance writer and art facilitator Choo Li-Hsian, 52. It engages children and teenagers with DS through weekly online sessions.

Each hour-long session allows members to take turns reading at least one page from a shared book, improve reading skills and interact socially.

Alumni KDSF chairperson Shahbina Khurshid Mohamed says this is the first time the group is organising such an event to raise awareness among the general public – many of whom may not know much about DS syndrome or have direct contact with individuals with DS.

“Our goal is to inspire other parents of children with DS and to celebrate the capabilities of this wonderful community,” she says.

Sabrina Teoh Webber, 16, is set to perform a violin piece at the event. Photo: Joyce Teoh

She adds that one of the highlights of the event will be the group reading of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, where members will bring the story to life through an interactive storytelling circle with the audience.

“We chose this story because it’s fun, familiar and inspiring; it shows creativity and teamwork. Our participants have been practising for weeks through their book club sessions and personal rehearsals.

“Given time and encouragement, they can do everything other children can do too,” adds Shahbina.

The event will also feature a variety of performances by DS children, including two pianists, a violinist, a Chinese drum group and a Chinese traditional dance team.

Megann Tan Rui Xin, 13, will be performing a traditional dance at Let’s Celebrate DS Awareness Month, organised by Alumni Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation. Photo: Elaine Lee“The other performers have been diligently practising their music and dance pieces independently, supported by family members and teachers.”

Shahbina says the main message through this celebration is simple – to shine a light on the creativity and unique talents of individuals with DS.

“Inclusion enriches everyone. Every person deserves to be valued, supported and given the opportunity to shine, regardless of ability.”

She adds that inclusion plays a vital role in building a more compassionate and understanding society.

“When people with DS are included in everyday spaces – whether in schools, workplaces or community events – it helps to break down barriers and misconceptions.

“It changes how others see them, shifting the focus from limitations to their strengths and potential. That’s how true awareness and empathy grow.”

Shahbina believes that genuine inclusion requires everyone’s involvement – from educators and families to the wider community.

“We all have a role to play. It is about creating spaces that welcome everyone, providing the right support and opportunities, and showing that with encouragement and patience, people with disabilities can achieve amazing things. When inclusion becomes part of our everyday life, society becomes stronger and kinder,” she concludes.