Wall mural adoption project aims to raise RM150k for children with Down syndrome

Volunteers helped brighten up the centre with a colourful mural as part of the fundraising initiative. Photos: Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation National Centre

Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation National Centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor aims to raise RM150,000 for children with Down syndrome (DS) through its community mural adoption project.

Themed “Celebrating the Beauty of Innocence”, members of the public can adopt a section of the mural for as little as RM3,000, with proceeds going towards programmes that help children develop essential communication, motor, social and self-care skills.

Ling (centre) with Nikita Toh (right) and Timothy Hiew during the mural painting session.

The initiative, launched in conjunction with DS Awareness Month in October, also saw the unveiling of a colourful community mural created with the participation of more than 100 people, including children with DS, their families and volunteers.

The mural painting event took place on Oct 17.

The painting covered walls measuring about 42m along each of the centre’s two sides.

Volunteers were guided by Sarawakian mural artist Irene Ling Tang Fong and Kuala Lumpur-based art facilitator and picture-book illustrator Debbie Yap Wai Paik.

Ling said the mural was inspired by nature and the traditional batik concept, featuring a giant kain sarong (traditional wraparound cloth) that appears to embrace the centre.

The design symbolises care, comfort, diversity and a sense of belonging within the community, Ling explained.

“During the painting, we allowed volunteers and children to colour freely on the wall with their brushes. Giving everyone the freedom to paint in their own way opens up possibilities, and possibilities bring creativity and hope. Every brushstroke added character to the wall,” she said.

Yap (left) guides a child with Down syndrome in painting the mural.

The foundation’s chairperson, Jocelyn Lim, said the mural also serves a practical purpose, as its colours and visual elements provide a more stimulating environment for the children, some of whom experience sensory processing challenges.

“The centre hopes the brighter surroundings will encourage interaction and communication during the children’s daily activities and morning walks.

“The project also recognises the contributions of its ‘Adopt A Wall’ sponsors and commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Kiwanis Club of Kuala Lumpur, which established and has supported the centre since its early days,” said Lim.

She added that the initiative was launched to raise funds for the centre’s early intervention programmes, which include speech and language therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and early childhood education.

The centre has so far raised RM56,000.

“This is an ongoing project, and so far we have only reached out to our usual donors. We hope more people will learn about our initiative and become part of our journey,” said Lim, adding that the centre currently supports over 100 children with DS through its programmes.

The therapies help children develop muscle strength and movement, and communication, self-help and learning skills, enabling them to become more independent and participate in society.

“Our programmes give children with DS the support and opportunities they need to take their place in society.  There is a saying that it takes a village to raise a child, and at our centre, we want to be part of that village,” she said.

For more details, call 016-288 5056, email [e-mail] or visit www.kdsf.org.my.