CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow today unveiled the newly acquired LiteGait Walker and officiated the Merdeka Swimming Gala 2024 at the Cerebral Palsy Children Association of Penang, located on Jalan Masjid Negeri.
He praised the association for purchasing the LiteGait Walker, at a cost of RM100,600, which will assist in gait training and postural control for children who require support with walking. Chow also commended the association for organising the swimming gala, which has resumed after a three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Highlighting the significance of the event, Chow noted that beyond showcasing the aquatic talents of our children through captivating hydrotherapy sessions in their newly heated pool, the gala served as an opportunity for the children, parents and staff members to strengthen their bonds.
The chief minister announced that the state government, together with Pertubuhan Wanita Mutiara Pulau Pinang (PWMPP), contributed more than half of the funds for the LiteGait Walker. However, he emphasised that the association requires RM1 million annually to sustain its operations.
Formed in 1962, the Cerebral Palsy Children Association of Penang is a non-governmental organisation that currently supports 115 registered children, aged one to 18 years, with a staff of 30. All services are provided to the children free of charge.
“They tirelessly strive to enhance the lives of the children under their care, one step at a time,” said Chow in his speech.
“Their services include free access to physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and even hydrotherapy for all registered children. Additionally, the association also offers a comprehensive sheltered programme for individuals aged 18 and above.
“The state government has been active in assisting more than 25,000 persons with disability (PwDs) through the state’s iSejahtera welfare aid programme, hence, upholding our principle of ‘leaving no one behind’.
“At the same time, we are also proud to house companies that employ PwDs, creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce. In this regard, parallel to the federal government’s call, we encourage more companies either local or foreign within the state to employ more PwDs and cater to their needs in terms of infrastructure and facilities, further adapting our society to a more holistic future.”
He expressed his gratitude to all the donors, corporate bodies, state and federal agencies, and individuals who continue to support the association.
Also present at the ceremony were Chow’s wife, Madam Tan Lean Kee, who is also the president of the Pertubuhan Wanita Mutiara Pulau Pinang; Batu Lancang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong, Cerebral Palsy Association of Penang president Ng Fook On, school board chairman Datuk Rhina Bhar and representatives of various agencies. Tan, attending in a wheelchair, is currently recuperating from a ligament tear sustained in a fall more than two months ago.
Following the speeches, Chow and other distinguished guests later observed the swimming gala, where the children, with assistance from their helpers, competed enthusiastically. They also visited another section of the centre where the children, with support from parents and volunteers, engaged in painting and other craft activities.
Ng, a former Batu Lancang assemblyman, thanked Rhina Bhar for spearheading the fundraising initiative for the acquisition of the LiteGait Walker.
He said the equipment will be instrumental in helping the children improve their balance and walking abilities.
Ng said the centre recently upgraded its therapy pool with heating capabilities, as hydrotherapy plays a vital role in the children’s treatment.
The heated pool helps prevent cold water from exacerbating muscle spasms in children.
Ng expressed his gratitude to Plexus Manufacturing Sdn Bhd for its initial donation of RM28,000, which helped kickstart the essential project, and to Advance Seatech for a significant discount.
“As a charitable organisation, we rely on the generosity of donors and fundraisers to continue offering our services free of charge to the children. Your support is crucial in keeping our programmes running and making a meaningful difference in their lives,” Ng said.
He also extended his appreciation to the staff and swimming co-ordinator, Mr Joseph Prayasam, for their dedication, as well as parents for their invaluable partnership in the association’s programmes.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Law Suun Ting