Achieving zero discrimination through inclusive play

Youth disability advocate Izdihar Janna Adzly, 16 (pictured with brother Idzat, 21), says, ‘When my friends without disabilities play with me, I think they learn to be more patient, kind, caring and always help each other.’ — Unicef

CHILDREN with disabilities in Malaysia and around the world are some of the most discriminated against people in our societies. They are consistently ignored in national legislation and policies. Basic health, education and protection services exclude them. They are subjected to negative public attitudes and stigma. And all the while, they are expected to overcome multiple inaccessible public and private spaces.

As part of our work towards zero discrimination of children with disabilities, Unicef (United Nations Children’s Fund) Malaysia explored the possibility of creating inclusive spaces so that children with and without disabilities could play together.