A Celebration of Science and Inclusion: Special Science Day 2024 for Disabled Children in Malaysia

Disabled children from across Malaysia gathered at the National Science Centre in Kuala Lumpur to celebrate Special Science Day (SSD) 2024. Over two days, the event aimed to promote the involvement of people with disabilities (PwD) in activities that foster a culture of science, technology, and innovation.

The programme featured a range of activities, including science demonstrations, performances by disabled children, sensory games workshops, hands-on creative activities, and an exhibition by agencies and organizations related to PwD. Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal emphasized the importance of the ‘play while learning’ programme with the theme ‘Special World Dimension’.

Mohammad Yusof highlighted that the programme was not limited to just the normal population but also aimed to provide opportunities for disabled individuals to experience science. The National Science Centre distributed Special Learning Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) kits to school students and organizations present at the event. This gesture symbolized the Centre’s appreciation and support for providing equal learning opportunities in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. Bandar Tun Razak MP, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail witnessed the distribution of the STEM kits.

Mohammad Yusof expressed hope that such programmes would continue in the future with increased participation from Malaysians. He emphasized the importance of boosting self-confidence among disabled children when exploring science and providing them with opportunities they may not have had otherwise. The National Science Centre offered free admission to all disabled individuals, parents, guardians