BOLD offers lifeline to young Mandarin learners

For many young children transitioning to Chinese medium schools, navigating the complexities of reading and writing Mandarin can seem daunting.

Recognising this challenge, BOLD for Special Needs Children, a Penang-based organisation dedicated to supporting youngsters with learning difficulties, is stepping in with a vital solution: the Holiday Mandarin Literacy Camp.

Tailored support for enhanced Mandarin literacy skills

“We have been conducting Mandarin literacy classes since 2005 and have assisted over 1,700 children since,” said Dr Tan Liok Ee, the President of BOLD.

“This reading camp is suitable for children who cannot read kindergarten or Primary One Chinese textbooks accurately or quickly.”

This includes children who are slow learners requiring extra support to keep pace with their peers.

This year, the Mandarin Literacy Camp will be held for nine days starting from 26 February to 3 March 2024, at SJKC Keong Hoe, Jalan Sungai Dua, Gelugor from 10 am to 12 pm.

Inclusivity and empowerment at the core

Dr Tan reiterated BOLD’s dedication: “Our intervention programmes are provided to children on the basis of need. Children who are able to come to our centres pay nominal charges.

Outreach services to preschools, schools and other institutions are provided completely free of charge.”

He further elaborated that BOLD is dedicated to serving and empowering children with special needs and their families.

Recognizing financial constraints faced by some families, the camp offers subsidised fees of RM200, with further reductions for underprivileged children.

This unwavering dedication reflects BOLD’s core mission of empowering children with special needs and their families.

Their proven track record of serving over 5,000 children with special needs, coupled with their adaptability and unwavering commitment, positions them as a vital resource for the Penang community.

As Dr. Tan concludes, “We are constantly seeking new ways to serve children effectively, ensuring they have the tools and support needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

BOLD was established in 1998 as the Bureau on Learning Difficulties, a working committee of the Penang Education Consultative Council led by Dato Dr Toh Kin Woon, with support from the Penang State Government.

Those who are interested in knowing more about BOLD’s activities may contact Jess Cheah through WhatsApp at 011-20684776, visit their website at https://boldspecial.com or email [email protected] for more information.

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