By: Noor Eszereen Juferi
Photo By: Noor Azreen Awang

PUTRAJAYA, August 19 - The Faculty of Educational Studies (FPP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in collaboration with Rekreasi Air Sisiran Floria (Water Recreational Facilities), Putrajaya recently organised the “Menyusur Jalur Cahaya: Kami Sentiasa Di Sisi" (Tracing the Path of Light: We’re Always by Your Side) programme to extend heart-warming support and camaraderie to the members of the Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB).

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and International) of UPM, Prof. Dr. Ismi Arif Ismail, stated that this programme bolsters confidence and resilience within the Visually Impaired (VI) community while fostering a culture of sports in society.

"I believe the implementation of this programme can have a positive impact not only on the visually impaired but also instil motivation to build their self-confidence to stay active," he said.

Prof. Dr. Ismi Arif also officiated the launch of the kayaking participants, which created history as a feat now etched in the Malaysian Book of Records as the 'Most Visually Impaired Participants in a Kayaking Programme'.

In addition, a total of 120 participants participated in this programme, consisting of 60 MAB members and 60 facilitators.

This programme also aspires to boost participants' self-confidence in water sports, foster solidarity among individuals with special needs, and cultivate greater interest and appreciation for kayaking activities.

Muhammad Faaiz Muhammad Rafee, a Bachelor of Physical Education student from FPP, UPM, mentioned that this was his first experience participating in a programme with the visually impaired.

"Even though their sight is limited, I am deeply impressed by their unwavering positivity in facing life’s challenges, which should be emulated, and despite being an able individual, it inspires me to improve my interpersonal skills," he said.

MAB member Mohd Yusaini Yusop said the programme benefited him in honing his kayaking skills, as well as building self-confidence and knowledge in water sports activities.

" I take pride in being part of this activity and am confident in my abilities. I'm elated that UPM organised this joint endeavour, and I look forward to its continuity in the future," he affirmed.

Meanwhile, the organisation of this programme aligns with UPM's 2021-2025 Strategic Plan, particularly Goal 1: Nurturing Graduates with Resilience to Confront Future Challenges.

Also present were the UPM Registrar, Muhazam Mansor, the Dean of FPP, UPM, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wan Marzuki Wan Jaafar, the Director of Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus (UPMKB), the Director of Putrajaya Corporation's Environmental Division, Ruhselah Ismail, and the MAB CEO, Dato' George Thomas.

Date of Input: 21/08/2023 | Updated: 04/09/2023 | hairul_nizam