Three-day event in Batang Kali builds resilience, develops participants’ leadership and teamwork skills
VISUALLY impaired youths put their resilience to the test through several challenging outdoor activities during a three-day camp in Batang Kali, Selangor.
The location for the Malaysian Visually Impaired Youth Camp 2026 was Kem Rimba Tamu.
Organised by Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB), it focused on developing participants’ self-confidence, leadership, teamwork and ability to live independent-ly.
A total of 30 visually impaired youth took part in the camp.
They were supported by a team of 15 committee members and volunteers who helped manage the outdoor challenges and safety operations throughout the event, said MAB.
Living up to the theme “Belia Cekal, Semangat Juang Kekal” (Resilient Youth, Everlasting Fighting Spirit), the participants showcased determination and resilience in navigating various activities.
Among the activities were jungle trekking to a waterfall, flying fox challenge, night adventures and team-building games that tested both their physical and mental endurance.
Selangor Disability Action Council (MTOS) chairman Danial Al-Rashid Haron Aminar Rashid said the participants learned important skills such as decision-making, self-management, problem-solving and working as a team.
“The experience gained will be invaluable when you return to your families, communities and workplaces.
“Use every lesson and experience as a catalyst to continue developing, not only as independent individuals but also as leaders capable of inspiring others,” Danial told participants when closing the camp.
Also present were MAB chief executive officer Datuk George Thomas and Hulu Selangor Municipal Council (MPHS) president Julaihah Jamaludin.
Danial said visually impaired people had considerable potential to succeed in various fields when given suitable opportunities, support and access.
He encouraged the participants not to allow their disability to be a barrier to their ambitions, but to draw strength from their determination, discipline and perseverance.
“Selangor government, through MTOS, remains steadfast in our commitment to support such empowerment initiatives, ensuring that the disabled community is always included in the nation’s development agenda,” added Danial.
George said the organisation’s youth, sports and recreation programmes provided participants with opportunities to challenge themselves and develop their potential.
Previous initiatives included leadership and self-development camps in Jerantut in Pahang, Kuala Kubu Baru in Selangor and Jelebu in Negri Sembilan, he added.
Strong interest in the programmes, he said, prompted MAB to extend participation to older members of the visually impaired community.
“Programmes such as this show that with appropriate facilities, support and opportunities, visually impaired people can enjoy outdoor activities like other members of society,” he added.
MAB would continue advocating for the rights, opportunities and active participation of visually impaired people in education, employment, youth development, sports and recreation, said George.
