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SILRA visits counterpart in Sungai Buluh, Malaysia

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release
16th December 2003

Friendly Games between the Residents from Singapore Leprosy Relief Association (SILRA) and Pusat Kawalan Kusta Negara (PKKN)

Residents from the Singapore Leprosy Relief Association (SILRA) and Pusat Kawalan Kusta Negara (PKNN) of Malaysia will renew their friendships once again as they get engaged in a series of friendly games between 15th to 18th December 2003 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia .

Now into its third year, this special visit forms part of an exchange programme between residents of the two homes with the main aim of fostering friendship and goodwill.

It is hoped that such specially planned visits would encourage the residents to participate in sports as a social & recreational activity as well as a form of physical therapy.

Boccia is a sport whose origin dates back to ancient times. It first appeared on the Paralympic programme in 1984. Today, it is one of the fastest growing Paralympic sports and also a very meaningful and healthy sport for the elderly.

Boccia, which is similar to skittles, can be played by people of all ages in singles, doubles or team events. The aim of boccia is to throw a leather ball as near as possible to a small white ball called the ‘jack’. This game requires concentration, co-ordination and balance. Boccia also helps to develop muscle control and accuracy.

Mdm Mumtaz Karim, who is Honorary Treasurer to the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) & Honorary Treasurer of SILRA is the Team Manager of the 15 residents delegation to Malaysia under this exchange programme. Accompanying Mdm Karim is Mr Jaffa Mohd Salleh, sports development officer with SDSC and Mdm Ramlah Ibrahim who is a volunteer.