A group photo during the cake cutting to mark the association’s silver jubilee.
BORN with Down Syndrome, Felicia Khoo Fen Li expresses her vibrant personality through her passion for acrylic painting.
The shy 23-year-old uses this creative outlet to connect in unique and joyful ways, showcasing the beauty of her individuality.
Khoo seems to have followed in her mother Alice Chee’s footsteps as the latter is an artist herself.
“Painting is her passion and she has been at it since she was a child,” said Chee, 55.
The mother and daughter were among 200 people at the 25th anniversary of Penang Down Syndrome Association (PDSA) held at Penang Harmonic Centre.
Khoo sharing her art work with Sim. — Photos CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
Khoo’s acrylic painting, “Season of Leaf and Rainbow”, was featured at the anniversary celebration.
PDSA advisor Dr Sim Joo Seng said the association had accomplished a lot since its establishment 25 years ago.
He said one of the biggest achievements was to encourage the public to accept those with Down Syndrome as part of the community.
Themed “Gratitude – The Hands That Make It Happen”, the event recognised the contributions by parents, volunteers, supporters and friends, who have given their time, love and energy to help build PDSA.
PDSA chairman Gonk Yen Chin said the association was unique as it was one of the few non- governmental organisations in Malaysia formed and run entirely by parents of children with Down Syndrome.
“PDSA is more than just an ordinary organisation, it is a place where parents can connect, support one another and build lasting friendships.
“Our journey together has not always been easy, but we have grown strong as a family, and I believe we have many more years to grow together,” she said.
Tanjung MP Lim Hui Ying, who was at the event, congratulated PDSA on its 25th anniversary.
“This anniversary is testament to the unwavering strength of the community, the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless power of love and inclusion,” she said.
Founded in 1999 by several parents and their children, who met Dr Sim and the late Joseph Yeoh, they proposed the idea of forming a parent support group to help individuals with Down Syndrome lead meaningful lives and achieve their full potential.
The association helps educate the public about Down Syndrome and supports projects for the direct and indirect benefit of individuals with Down Syndrome.
Presently, the association offers programmes specially for schoolgoing children, including enrichment classes for beginners, elementary and intermediate groups, run from Monday to Friday.
PDSA also provides life skills and job skills for school leavers and young adults.
The anniversary event featured an art exhibitions, performances, workshops along with family bonding activities.
