World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur lights up an afternoon for Down syndrome children
December 17, 2025
Tengku Puteri Iman Afzan (centre, back row), Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan, Director General of the Department of Social Welfare (fourth row), and Fauzy Wahab, Group CEO of WTCKL (front row), pose for a group photo with children, joined by their parents and caregivers from the Down Syndrome Association of Malaysia.
Laughter echoed, music floated through the hall, and superheroes stole the show as more than 50 children lit up the afternoon with pure, contagious joy. Joined by their proud parents and caregivers from the Down Syndrome Association of Malaysia across five centres in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, the children were treated to a celebration that was equal parts magical, meaningful, and memorable.
From heartfelt poetry readings and gentle violin melodies to enthusiastic singing and spontaneous dancing, the children took centre stage—quite literally. Adding to the excitement were 14 beloved superheroes who didn’t just wave from afar, but personally greeted the children, escorted them on stage, and danced alongside them. For one shining afternoon, everyone wore a cape of confidence and belonging. A celebration with heart and purpose The Children’s Day celebration, hosted by World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL), was held as part of its ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. More than a festive gathering, the event celebrated ability, inclusivity, and the simple joy of being seen. The event was graced by Tengku Puteri Iman Afzan Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. It also marked another meaningful milestone in WTCKL’s long-standing collaboration with Ronald McDonald House Charities Malaysia (RMHC). The initiative was also supported by the Social Welfare Department, reinforcing a shared commitment to children with special needs. The program featured a cheque handover from WTCKL to the Down Syndrome Association of Malaysia, inspiring stage performances by children with Down syndrome, cheerful mascot appearances by WTCKL’s heads of department, certificate presentations, interactive games, and a joyful cake-cutting session that brought everyone together. “Every child deserves happiness” Commenting on the initiative, Fauzy Wahab, Group CEO of WTCKL, shared that corporate responsibility at WTCKL goes far beyond formal programs. “At WTCKL, corporate social responsibility is a humanitarian commitment. Every child deserves to be celebrated, cared for, and given the opportunity to experience happiness, regardless of the challenges they face.” Celebrating everyday heroes Explaining the superhero theme, Fauzy added that it symbolizes strength, courage, and resilience. “Each child is a hero in their own way. Though small in size, their courage in facing life’s challenges is extraordinary. We hope initiatives like this continue to bring smiles and inspire compassion within the community.” Beyond Children’s Day celebrations, WTCKL regularly hosts impactful CSR initiatives, including its annual Infaq Kasih program, which focuses on supporting the urban poor, elderly individuals, and vulnerable communities across Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. Understanding the bigger picture for children with special needs Meanwhile, Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan, Director General of the Department of Social Welfare, shared that Malaysia is home to approximately 9.03 million children under the age of 18, accounting for 26.4% of the national population of 34.3 million. As of 30 November 2025, the Department of Social Welfare recorded 809,243 registered persons with disabilities (OKU). However, many remain unregistered due to concerns that registration may affect employment opportunities. Datuk Che Murad urged parents of children with special needs to register with the department, highlighting that registration enables access to vital support, including free medical treatment and educational assistance. “The Department of Social Welfare is committed to supporting children’s education, especially those with special needs.” He further shared that the department aims to provide 5,000 inclusive opportunities for children to develop according to their abilities, while safeguarding their well-being and rights. Importantly, he reminded the community that children with disabilities are not a separate group on the sidelines. Like superheroes, true strength comes from teamwork—when everyone plays their role, society becomes healthier, more compassionate, and stronger together. |
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