UPM and Floria empower visually impaired with kayaking

In a heartwarming display of community support and innovation, the Faculty of Educational Studies (FPP) at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) partnered with Floria Water Recreation, Putrajaya, to orchestrate a groundbreaking program titled ‘Tracing the Path of Light: We’re Always By Your Side.’ This initiative was designed to extend comfort, companionship, and empowerment to the members of the Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB) who are blind or visually impaired.

Prof. Dr. Ismi Arif Ismail, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International) of UPM, applauded the initiative’s profound impact on the visually impaired community, underscoring its ability to nurture confidence and resilience while fostering a culture of sports within society.

“Executing this program carries the potential to yield a positive impact not only on the visually impaired but also injects motivation for them to cultivate their self-belief and stay active,” he expressed.

Setting a new record with kayaking

Adding a historic dimension to the event, Prof. Dr. Ismi Arif ceremoniously launched the kayaking participants, etching their names into the Malaysian Book of Records as the ‘Most Visually Impaired Participants in a Kayaking Program.’ The event, attended by a diverse audience including students, faculty, and dignitaries, marked a moment of celebration and unity.

With 120 enthusiastic participants in attendance, consisting of 60 MAB members and 60 facilitators, the event manifested the power of collaboration and inclusion. This pioneering initiative aimed to boost participants’ self-assurance in water sports, cultivate solidarity among individuals with special needs, and foster a deeper appreciation for kayaking activities.

Muhammad Faaiz Muhammad Rafee, a Physical Education student at FPP, UPM, expressed his transformative experience collaborating with visually impaired individuals. He marveled at their unwavering positivity in the face of challenges and shared, “Their example encourages me to develop my interpersonal skills, despite being an able individual.”

MAB member Mohd Yusaini Yusop echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the program’s positive impact on his kayaking skills, self-assurance, and understanding of water sports. “I take pride in being part of this activity and am confident in my abilities. I’m elated that UPM organized this joint endeavor, and I look forward to its continuity in the future,” he affirmed.

A step towards UPM’s strategic goals

The initiative seamlessly aligns with UPM’s 2021-2025 Strategic Plan, specifically Goal 1: Nurturing Graduates with Resilience to Confront Future Challenges. By promoting resilience, inclusivity, and community engagement, the program embodies the university’s commitment to holistic education.

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of key figures, including UPM Registrar Muhazam Mansor, FPP Dean Prof. Madya Dr. Wan Marzuki Wan Jaafar, Director of Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus (UPMKB), Director of Putrajaya Corporation’s Environmental Division, Ruhselah Ismail, MAB Deputy President, Datin Fauziah Ramly, and MAB CEO Dato’ George Thomas. Their attendance underscored the significance of the initiative and the collaborative efforts driving positive change in the community.