The Perak Association for Intellectually Disabled organised a fundraising charity dinner at Syuen Hotel, on Friday, May 12.
With its tagline, “Every Donor Appreciated, Every Dollar Accounted,” chosen by its president Dato’ Yeoh Beng San, the occasion was a resounding success. It received overwhelming support from various organisations and individuals, and helped raised some RM250,000.
Yeoh assured all funds received would be used solely for the people the association serves.
“During times of economic slowdown, your generosity has truly touched our hearts and for this, we’re forever thankful. The unwavering support is beyond our expectation. Not only have you paid for your dinner, but you’ve given in excess of the cost, helping us raise the much needed funds to run the association,” he said.
In his speech, Yeoh added the association’s success was attributed to the strong foundation laid down by his predecessors, chairman and council members who had persevered. They’re committed in their effort from the beginning.
“We had our humble beginning as a small centre in Kampung Tawas, Ipoh in 1980. Since then, we’ve spread our wings to Taiping, Sitiawan, Kuala Kangsar and Batu Gajah, having special schools and sheltered workshops in these areas. Today, we have a special kindergarten and a sheltered factory in Ipoh for special children, which is a first of its kind in Perak,” said Yeoh.
To date, the schools have about 600 students with special needs, making it the largest non-governmental organisation catering to these special children.
“We have many success stories. About a hundred of our graduates are gainfully employed in the private sector. Two are married and a few are licensed drivers. A few excelled in sports, winning medals at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Dublin, Athens and Shanghai and at Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games,” Yeoh announced.
HRH Sultan Nazrin Muizzudin Shah, HRH Raja Perempuan Tuanku Zara Salim Davidson, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri DiRaja Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and his wife, Datin Seri DiRaja Saripah Zulkifli, were in attendance.
The hotel’s banquet hall was filled by eager donors numbering over 700, in all. Entertainment was provided by special-needs children who sang and danced.
Nabilah Hamudin
