KUCHING: A cheerful atmosphere filled the grounds of the Welfare of Intellectually Disabled Children (PERKATA) Special School during its annual Open Day, as members of the public turned up in support of the special education school.
Held at the PERKATA school compound on Sunday, the event saw people from all walks of life come together with a shared spirit of giving and support for the development of the institution.
The annual Open Day aims to raise funds to ensure the smooth running of the school, which caters to children with special needs.
“The PERKATA community is truly grateful to everyone who came. It shows the strong collaboration and unwavering support from both parents and the wider community,” said principal Wendy Mandah in an interview with the Sarawak Tribune.
Although this year’s turnout was slightly lower compared to previous years, she said the response at most of the stalls remained encouraging.
“Some of the teachers arrived as early as 4 am to cook and prepare the venue to ensure everything was in order,” said teacher Norsiha Isa, who has been instrumental in coordinating the event.
She explained that the more subdued atmosphere this year was likely due to the event coinciding with other NGO activities happening around the city.
“Last year, some stalls sold out as early as 9 am,” shared teaching assistant Vela Vincent.
Nevertheless, the presence of the public earlier in the day was still seen as highly positive and heartwarming.
PERKATA continues to be a top choice among parents raising children with special needs.
Fauziah Ahmad Fauzi, whose son is a student at PERKATA, encouraged others to visit the school and witness firsthand the remarkable interactions and development of the students.
She also urged parents who may feel hesitant or ashamed to bring their children out in public to consider enrolling them at PERKATA, as she had seen significant improvements in her son, Hafiy, since he joined.
“One of the core teachings here is to help children with special needs become more independent,” she said.
“Hafiy used to rely on nappies, but now he knows how to let us know when he needs to use the toilet.”
Noraimi Dollah, whose son Qayyim Irfan is also enrolled at the school, echoed his sentiments, saying his child has proven that children with special needs can grow just like any other child.
“Just yesterday, Qayyim won a gold medal in swimming at the Special Olympics,” he proudly shared.
This, he said, is proof that with consistent and strong support, these children can go far in life.
Open Day chairperson Chan Hui Liang expressed his joy and gratitude for the support shown by the attendees.
“I hope the public will continue to support us, as we are always striving to give our best to the children,” he said.
He added that the public can continue to lend support by participating in future activities organised by PERKATA.
Chan also announced that the school will be hosting a charity run this coming September.
For more information or to make a donation, members of the public are encouraged to visit PERKATA’s official Facebook page at PERKATA Special School.
The success of Sunday’s event was written on the smiling faces of parents and families who came together in support of this meaningful cause.
