MAKING a difference in the lives of those with disabilities since 2003, the Persatuan Minda D’ Home, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) based in Penang, hosted a day-long fundraiser called the Happy Penang Carnival at the Esplanade on Dec 3.
Started at 7am and ended at 5pm, the carnival attracted people from all walks of life.
Among the many exciting activities that took place were, lucky draw sessions, fitness challenges, fun booths, dance performances, a food fair, a children’s colouring contest, a fun walk, free health screenings and many others.
State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen was present to officiate the opening of the carnival earlier this morning.
Before the carnival officially kicked off, Gooi, in his speech, commended the association for its efforts to address and encourage more support for people with disabilities, while recalling a similar event which was held in 2015 to benefit the needy community.
Called the Stress-Free Carnival back then, the event was held at the same place as today.
He also applauded them for their primary services aimed at assisting those with mental issues, while also providing counselling, psychotherapy and mental health services.
“In addition to this, D’ Home also works closely with the i-Life Suicide Prevention Association of Penang (i-Life) and Penang Dementia Association in running activities to promote suicide prevention and dementia care.
“I was particularly fascinated when I was told in today’s event that we see the clients from Persatuan Minda D’ Home are allowed to work hand in hand and involve themselves in the exhibition booth displaying their projects.
“I, as the state executive councillor, under the health portfolio, will continue to better understand the needs of the people with mental health or physical health disabilities community in a more detailed manner as we are determined to foster possible collaborations with various stakeholders and NGOs throughout Penang,” Gooi said in his speech.
He also announced a RM10,000 contribution from his exco’s allocation as support for this event.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix courtesy of YB Daniel Gooi’s office