SHAH ALAM: Sime Darby Property (SDB) Berhad, in partnership with Unicef, has built an inclusive playground to accommodate children with disabilities in the City of Elmina township, here.SDB had officially unveiled the inclusive playground on Dec 3 in conjunction with the International Day of the Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).
Unicef Child Protection Specialist (Children with Disabilities) Zoe Gan said SDB is the first developer to build a unique and universally-designed outdoor space that is user-oriented.
She said the playground had been designed in collaboration with children with and without disabilities, their families and a number of leading organisations of people with disabilities.
“The playground is the first that we know of in Malaysia that incorporates human centred universal design; these inclusive approaches ensure access to as many people as possible.
“They do not discriminate with regards to age, gender, or disability. They enable different people, with their diverse needs and perspectives, to engage with their environment in a meaningful and purposeful manner,” she said in a statement.
She added the playground is more than just a space for play, rather it is a platform for integration of all communities.
“This inclusive playground is not just a playground for children to get their daily exercise. It can be a microcosm of our society.
“Through playful interaction with friends, their parents and others, children learn to solve problems, to make friends and collaborate with each other as a group.
“They learn how to share with others, to value and respect differences, and build social skills that will help them navigate our complex world,” she said.
Zoe said play is one of the best gifts to give to children– the freedom to explore, discover and move.
“While education, healthcare and nutrition are critical, we must not underestimate the importance that play has on a child’s physical, mental, emotional and social development.
“For this reason, it is important that we do not leave children with disabilities behind in play. Inclusion needs to happen in every facet of life – from education, healthcare, nutrition and especially play,” she said.
