Champion for Down syndrome children

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PETALING JAYA: In the annals of child welfare, some people shine brighter than others. Dr Neville Anthony Fernandez is one such person, whose fight for the rights and welfare of Down syndrome children has made him a legend.
Having dedicated himself to the Down syndrome cause, Fernandez sowed the seeds of compassion and care as the founder of the Kiwanis Care Centre in Kuala Lumpur.
Despite his immense sacrifices in terms of time, energy and financial resources, his commitment remains a beacon of hope for those he serves.
Reflecting on his journey, he recounted that his mission to help children with Down syndrome began during his service with the Armed Forces in Sibu, Sarawak, in 1981.
“Back then, I noticed that a lot of children with Down syndrome could not attend school because of their physical challenges. I felt sad to see them left out.
“My only worry at the time was that their exclusion would hinder their intellectual development and perpetuate harmful societal stigmas surrounding them.”
Fernandez emphasised that like any child, those with Down syndrome deserve the opportunity to learn, “and so, I resolved to help them reach their fullest potential”.
His vision extended beyond individual efforts and emphasised the importance of collective action in improving the welfare of children with Down syndrome.
He joined Kiwanis International in 1985, and when the Kiwanis Club of Kuala Lumpur decided to undertake a long-term project in 1986, he suggested focusing on Down syndrome.
He led the project despite facing health challenges and secured a building for the first Down syndrome centre in Petaling Jaya in 1989.
The centre became a foundation the following year and now operates six centres with 350 children.
From 1995 to 1997, Fernandez served as president of the Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation and raised over RM2.5 million for it.
He was also appointed vice-president of the Asia-Pacific Regional Federation of Down Syndrome Associations in 1996.
For his years of hard work and efforts, Fernandez received the MyHero 4.0 Award from the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
“This award is a deeply meaningful one for me. I am deeply touched as it reaffirms the value of the work I dedicated myself to.
“As I stood on stage to receive my award, surrounded by applause and recognition, I could not help but reflect on the journey that led me to this moment.”
However, amid the flurry of emotions, one sentiment stood out above all, gratitude to his son.
“My son’s belief in me, and his encouragement kept me going, especially during tough times. My nomination reminded me of how much one can influence another and the importance of family bonds.”
Today, Fernandez remains focused on advancing the welfare and care of children with Down syndrome and is thankful for the opportunity to serve them.
He also acknowledged the efforts of all the staff and parents of Down syndrome children who came together to support him during trying times.

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2026 Dinner Meeting: 20nd August20 Aug 261

2026 Dinner Meeting: 20nd August

The Kiwanis Club of Klang hosted its August dinner meeting on 20 August 2026, welcoming members, guests, and friends for an evening of fellowship and inspiration. The highlight of the night was the presence of Mo Zidan, an international keynote speaker, professor, and corporate communication strategist with over two decades of global experience. Mo delivered a captivating keynote on “Communication in the Modern World”. Drawing from his extensive work across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia, he emphasized the irreplaceable role of human empathy, respect, and connection in communication. While artificial intelligence can process information and simulate dialogue, Mo reminded us that true communication requires emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and genuine human presence. The evening concluded with warm appreciation for Mo Zidan’s contribution. May we all be inspired to carry forward the principles of humane communication in our daily interactions, reinforcing the values of respect, clarity, and compassion that lie at the heart of Kiwanis service. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPuqmhMcCq0

Shanghai Masquerade II Charity Dinner14 Jun 261

Shanghai Masquerade II Charity Dinner

Shanghai Masquerade II Charity Dinner Raises Nearly RM80,000 Towards Building a New Home of Hope for KDSF Klang Centre 📸 Relive the unforgettable evening here: Event Photos 🎥 Video Highlights of the evening : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8yYwmRYRfg A Community United to Build a Brighter Future On 14 June 2026, more than 150 guests gathered at One World Hotel, Bandar Utama, for an extraordinary evening of generosity, compassion, and community spirit. Organized by the Kiwanis Club of Klang, the Shanghai Masquerade II Charity Dinner successfully raised nearly RM80,000 towards the ambitious goal of building a brand-new centre for the Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation (KDSF) Klang Centre. With all 16 tables sold and the support of eight corporate sponsors, the event marked a significant milestone in KDSF Klang's journey to create a larger, more sustainable, and purpose-built facility that will serve children and young adults with Down syndrome for generations to come. The evening was further honoured by the presence of Mr. Lee Kuan Yong, Immediate Past President of Kiwanis International, whose attendance reflected the importance of the project not only to the local community but also to the wider Kiwanis family around the world. --- Building More Than a Centre — Building a Future For many years, KDSF Klang Centre has been a place where children and young adults with Down syndrome receive early intervention capabilities, education, life-skills training, developmental support, and the opportunity to thrive in a nurturing environment. Today, the centre supports 38 students, each with unique talents, aspirations, and potential. However, as the needs of the community continue to grow, so does the need for a larger and better-equipped facility. The proposed new KDSF Klang Centre is envisioned as more than just a building. It will be a dedicated centre of excellence designed to provide enhanced learning spaces, improved accessibility, specialised training facilities, and a safe environment where students can continue developing the skills needed to live fuller and more independent lives. Every contribution made during Shanghai Masquerade II brings this vision one step closer to reality. --- A Night of Elegance with a Purpose Inspired by the glamour and mystique of old Shanghai, guests arrived dressed in stunning masquerade-themed attire, transforming the ballroom into a vibrant celebration of culture, fellowship, and philanthropy. The evening featured fine dining, entertainment, fundraising activities, and moments of reflection that highlighted the life-changing work carried out by KDSF Klang Centre. Among the highlights was a spirited auction featuring two exclusive collector's items: a rare bottle of Kao Liang and a premium Tennessee whiskey. The enthusiastic response from bidders demonstrated the generosity and commitment of supporters who believe in the vision of a new centre for the students of KDSF Klang. Throughout the evening, the atmosphere was filled with optimism, knowing that every pledge and donation was helping lay the foundation for a better future. --- The Power of Partnership The success of Shanghai Masquerade II would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our corporate sponsors, donors, volunteers, organising committee, and guests. The Kiwanis Club of Klang extends its deepest appreciation to our eight corporate sponsors and numerous individual contributors who answered the call to support this transformative project. Their generosity demonstrates the tremendous impact that can be achieved when businesses and individuals come together for a common purpose. This event is proof that meaningful community development is not achieved by a single organisation alone—it is built through partnerships, shared values, and collective action. --- A Showcase of Service Leadership Shanghai Masquerade II also reflects the growing capability of the Kiwanis Club of Klang to deliver impactful community initiatives that create lasting change. From fundraising and volunteer mobilisation to stakeholder engagement and project planning, the event showcased the Club's ability to unite diverse groups behind a common vision while maintaining its unwavering commitment to serving children. As part of the global Kiwanis family, the Club continues to demonstrate that service leadership can be a powerful catalyst for positive social transformation. --- A Message from the Organising Chairman "Help build a better centre of hope for our community in Klang." These words embody the purpose behind Shanghai Masquerade II. The new KDSF Klang Centre represents more than bricks and mortar. It represents opportunity, dignity, inclusion, and hope for countless families who depend on the services and support provided by the Foundation. Together, we are not simply raising funds. We are building a future. --- Thank You for Helping Us Build Hope The Kiwanis Club of Klang extends its sincere gratitude to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, supporter, and guest who contributed to the success of Shanghai Masquerade II. Because of your generosity, we have taken another meaningful step towards realizing a dream that will benefit children and young adults with Down syndrome for many years to come. While the journey towards building the new KDSF Klang Centre continues, the success of this event proves one thing beyond doubt: When a community comes together with purpose, compassion, and determination, extraordinary things become possible. Building a New Home of Hope. Building Opportunities. Building Futures. Together. 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2026 Dinner Meeting : 22nd January22 Jan 261

2026 Dinner Meeting : 22nd January

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