EACH coupon used at an annual charity fundraiser this year contributed towards sustaining therapy and education for children with Down syndrome.
“Fiesta Merdeka Food & Funfair 2025” by Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation-National Centre (KDSF-NC) held in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, drew more than 700 visitors.
They included families, students, medical volunteers, welfare home residents and KDSF patrons, all giving their time and money to the cause.
Coupons valued at RM10 enabled visitors to enjoy food and games such as Freedom Toss and Bowling Kelapa Tua.
Visitors who collected the requisite number of stamps after playing the games could redeem them for a small prize like a tote bag or pencil case.
There were also health screenings, art activities for children, traditional dance performances by KDSF alumni and even a surprise show by “pop yeh yeh” band Kugiran Masdo.
Dance teacher Dr Chua Caik Leng, who helped organise the event, said Dance for Funds classes also helped raise money for KDSF.
“All proceeds from coupons, public contributions and class fees are properly audited before being channelled back to the foundation,” he said.
Rose Zaimi Mohamad Zaid, 45, who helped put up decorations and whose daughter has been with Kiwanis since she was five months old, said the event was a good initiative for raising awareness about the Down syndrome community.
“This is the first Fiesta Merdeka since Covid-19,” said Rose Zaimi.
“Seeing it come back like this feels special,” she said while commending the dance performances by the children.
“You can see their confidence grow. Events like this give them the chance to step out, socialise and prepare for life beyond Kiwanis,” she added.
