Best Buddies Malaysia

Our Best Buddies Day

2009-11-21T12:36:00.001+08:00

14th of November 2009 was another historical day for UCSI U-College Buddies and our buddies as it was our first ever Best Buddies Day, which happened from 1.00pm to 4.00pm at Lounge of our UCSI University main campus.

Thanks to the supports among ourselves, the new members of UCSI U Best Buddies and also our dearest best buddies and parents, we’d twenty joined us for this special occasion. The main purpose of having this event is to train ourselves as well as the public on how to interact and socialize with people with intellectual disabilities. Apart from this, it also aims to strengthen the bond between college buddies and buddies.

The planning started three weeks with all the games tidily plotted before this day but the real preparation actually started early in the morning. Some of the college buddies gathered at one of the members’ house to prepare for refreshment with food such as tuna sandwiches and chicken balls while the rest went for the set up at the venue.

At about1 pm, the training started officially by Ms Yeong Moh Foong, who’s an experienced one from the United Voice. At the beginning, she introduced the different categories of learning disabilities. A few role plays were held to make the talk more interesting. The first role play was about ways of expressing to someone with learning disability and she used directions-giving as her example to make us clear about the proper way of guiding our buddies. She also emphasized on a few aspects to be noted when communicating with or instructing a buddy. “For instance, we need to speak slowly and softly so that the buddy can understand our point,” she pointed out.

Besides that, we need to minimize the usage of difficult words and try to use our languages as simple as possible to clarify our words. The second role-play was more appealing and it was about the importance of the art of listening. Listening can make buddies or even ourselves, as the speakers, feel appreciated.

As for the closing of the training, the United Voice speaker presented certificates to the College Buddy Director. Refreshments lasted only for 5 minutes due to a dearth of time but it was indeed meaningful as it had provided a chance for the college buddies to build up good rapport with the buddies or even their parents.

Soon after this, we adjourned to the lobby of Block A for our major game today, which was given a name: Ha-ku-na-ma-ta-ta, which means “there are no worries”. Like what’s implied in this game, we really had an enjoyable time with all our worries gone when doing this together. The buddies and college buddies were divided into four groups with each receiving a pile of newspapers, a pair of scissors, a tube of glue, cellophane tape and a pair of staplers. Each group was required to select a theme for their runway project prior to dress their chosen member up as the ‘model of the theme’ in 30 minutes. All the buddies endeavored to show their artistic creativity for modeling and had finally came out with their impressive masterpieces, i.e. The Lion King, Hawaii, Halloween and The Witch and the Broomstick. The Lion King won the first for this fashion show but all groups were given presents for encouragement.

To keep this day forever in our memory so that it won’t fade off, we took some photographs with buddies, parents and among ourselves. Altogether we look forward to such gathering in the future.

Reported by,
Syariza Kamal

A speech given by Wai Keen

2009-11-08T15:54:00.002+08:00

Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen. This is my first time of giving a speech to you all with my honour of pleasure.

These evening I would like to thanks to my best buddies from UCSI, had brought me up to expose different things and environment as while as teaching me of how to be smart and more alert at buying things in the shop and places too.

I have great fun with my other friends and fellows from Dignity and Services who had warm-up my heart, I really had a pleasure to Ms Mettilda John and Fendi Edip leaving of spending a social lifestyle; and for a special care for handicapped people.

This evening I had full of pleasure in front of the crowd standing in front of me with a smiling face.

I would like to thanks my parents who had organized a trip to Genting Highlands because this is my first time coming here to celebrate my 22nd birthday with all my friends. Thank you so much and enjoy the great fun there evening.

A speech given by Wai Keen, who joined Best Buddies and has paired up with Omer. It was our pleasure for being invited to his Birthday party in Awana Genting Resort.

His speech has touches all our heart. He spoke wholeheartedly. I could sense that he was nervous to speak in front of many people, at last he completed his speech with a great applause from us.

He was very kind to give me his script of speech. Here I am to post his speech to share with everyone. My wish is to acknowledge his talent, as well as appreciate his love toward us, Best Buddies.

Thank you, Wai Keen.

Best Regards

Teo Hui Ru

Hakuna matata

2009-11-07T00:03:00.009+08:00

Ha-ku-na-ma-ta-ta is a Swahili phrase that is literally translated as "There are no worries"

A: Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase; Hakuna Matata! Ain't no passing craze; It means no worries for the rest of your days, It's our problem-free philosophy; Hakuna Matata!
B: Hakuna Matata?
A: Yeah. It's our motto! Those two words will solve all your problems.

Do you want to solve your problems, buddies? Join us on this coming Saturday (14/11/2009 from 12 pm to 4.30 pm) so that we can foster the spirit of 'ha-ku-na-ma-ta-ta'

New Straits Times --> Best Buddies bond with kids

2009-10-17T10:35:00.005+08:00

Dear all, check out the recent Best Buddies' event published by New Straits Times.

Click on the link -->
http://www.ucsi.edu.my/news/innews/2009/03Oct2009NewStraitsTimes.jpg

Regards,
Best Buddies Team

Testimonial from Dream

2009-07-19T22:45:00.005+08:00

Dream

They are simple, they will never pretend;
They are cute, laugh with a childlike heart;
They are unexpectable, keep them in a place is a hard job;
They are sweet, make your heart warm with a speechless hug.

When we arrived first at the car station of One Utama, buddies did not trust, even did not like us sometime. However the thing changed when we reached Awana Hotel together. When we had the handkerchief, puzzle and colour games. They seemed open their heart to us. I am really happy with this. After games we sang and danced joyfully. The most touchable thing was that Charmaine actually hugged and said to me:"Dream, you are the best buddy of me."

Just a small action; a simple word; made my tiredness and upset disappeared totally.

The second day of trip, we celebrated Wai Keen's birthday. He gave us a speech which make me want to cry. And of course cry happily :D.

In conclusion, this is a memorable gathering that we have seen the other sides of buddies. And make them close to us.

In fact, I believe that not only the buddies is changing, we ourselves got improved in different ways when playing and taking care of them. Best Buddies, keep it up.

You are the best.

Thanks to Waikeen's family and D&S society.

Written by,
Dream Huang
Best Buddies Member

Kite Flying Trip at Kepong Metropolitan Park

2009-07-14T17:03:00.008+08:00

Best Buddies had organized a group outing last Saturday. Thanks to Dignity & Services (D&S) for their great help to allow their buddies (people with intellectual disabilities) to interact with our members.

Let's the pictures make the talking. By the way, we had a kite flying session in Kepong Metropolitan Park. Our first attempt, yet it is fun and meaningful

More photos could be viewed in our photo gallery.

Regards,

Best Buddies Team

Ice Breaker - Snowball Fight

2009-06-23T14:54:00.003+08:00

Snowball fight - is fun, interactive, and sporting game during winter

There is no winter in Malaysia, but we had an ice breaking game called as snowball fight. How we did that for all the Best Buddies members?

First of all, all the members are requested to write 3 interesting things about themselves. Later on, everyone is instructed to crumple the paper, and make it like a snowball.

We are divided into 2 groups. We need to throw the snowball to the opposite team. After a few round of fight, each of us will need to pick up the nearest snowball.

Lastly, we have to read out the interesting things written by the people, and guess who is the person.

Benefits: we got to know each other one step closer. It is also a very good exercise for all of us.

Try it out for your clubs !

Best Regards,

Best Buddies Team

Gathering for existing and new members at Manna Cafe, Giant Cheras

2009-06-01T14:43:00.004+08:00

New semester has started, Best Buddies is also getting new members. Thus, is time for all the members to meet up. Total we had 14 people to join this dinner.

It is not a meeting definitely. It is a platform for us to know each other. We have a quality time together, yet we don't forget to update each other our tentative upcoming events.

Laughter is a way to enhance relationship, it is always true. We laughed and joked a lot, and we really enjoyed our dinner. The food is fantastic. The chef in fact is African, but the restaurant owned by a Chinese. Can have second attempt next time.

Thank you for joining Best Buddies

Looking forward to work together with each other.

Interviewed by China Press

2009-05-24T21:10:00.003+08:00

This time, Best Buddies was featured by China Press, one of the chinese newspaper in Malaysia.

Click on the picture, and read more about the news

"I See You, Kawanku"
Finally, Best Buddies has been seen

BB Got Talent by Malaysian Today & The Star

2009-05-24T21:01:00.005+08:00

It is surprising that BB Got Talent 09 had been published in newspaper

Special thanks to The Star & Malaysian Today

"Special Talents Shine" by The Star

"UCSI University's Nite of Buddies" by Malaysian Today

Charmaine and I : Movie Outing

2009-05-19T22:14:00.004+08:00

Now, let me officially introduce my buddy. Her name is Charmaine Chan, currently 20 years old. She has down syndrome. She is always looking so cute and lovey in people' eye.

Best Buddies' one-to-one friendship starts on April 2009 officially. But, I got to know her last year around September 08. This was my 2nd time to bring her out for a movie. This time, we watched a movie called "Battle of Terra". It is an animation movie, and we enjoyed it.

Before the show started, we went for arcade. We played basketball shooting, and then she played "kungfu" on the play machine. I was surprised. She played till level 8, the last stage. I always died at level 1, but she pulled it to the end. Then, the first time i knew that she learnt tae kwan do. I only can jokingly said "charmaine, you got to protect me now" haha..

Yes, she is always cheerful. She said so many times "thank you" for bringing her out. She even said "I won't disturb you because I know you are busy with studies". She is caring. She always looking forward for the next outing. I hope I could have more time for her too.

Hope our friendship will grow

Visitation of Ms Valerie Vitale

2009-05-15T10:48:00.003+08:00

I thought of uploading this photo because it served an inspiration and motivation for Best Buddies Malaysia to strive for the best. Why I said so?

Firstly, Ms Valerie Vitale, who is Best Buddies International Programs Director brought Best Buddies to Malaysia. We, people in Malaysia could have a chance to make a difference in people with intellectual disabilities' lives.

Secondly, she visited us just 1 week before our massive event, BB Got Talent 09. Her visitation has cleared out our doubt and confusion about Best Buddies, and also her compliment on Best Buddies has boost out our confidence in making Best Buddies shine in the future.

You know what? Best Buddies Malaysia could feature our article in Best Buddies International newsletter. Such a great news for all of us. Our chapter will be known worldwide.

Do come and join us for this journey of enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities with us.

Thank you, Ms Valerie Vitale

Thank you, Ms Ker Shin (program director of BB Malaysia) for holding on with us to improve BB chapter in Malaysia

Last but not least, thank you to my BB members who have been so faithful in Best Buddies.

Love,

Hui Ru

UCSI University Clubs' Day

2009-05-15T10:27:00.005+08:00

Last Wednesday is our UCSI University Clubs' Day. Nonetheless our club was also THERE!! We pushed ourselves to fully prepared for this day!

Hence, by looking at the photo, you could imagine how much effort that we had put in. We made a poster on a black board. We also made a slideshow of BB on a LCD screen. We had also prepared some sweets for students.

What I was really excited was - my bunch of Best Buddies' members. Thank you so much for spacing out your time for this Club Day. Without your contribution and commitment, Best Buddies could never work as a TEAM.

Nice to work together with =D Let's embark Best Buddies more together !!

Best Regards,

Hui Ru

News : BB Got Talent 2009

2009-05-05T16:46:00.003+08:00

Dear all,

You may log in to BB Got Talent 2009 - the news about BB Got Talent 2009 covered by UCSI University

Best Regards

Best Buddies Team

BB Got Talent

2009-05-02T13:22:00.015+08:00

On the 2oth of March 2009, BEST BUDDIES Malaysia had organised the very first talent show, "BB Got Talent" and this took place at UCSI University, Auditorium. The main objective for this event is to let our buddies to show everybody their inborn and incredible talent in them, thus giving them the chance to perform in front of the crowd, also building up their confidence.

People started to come and before entering the Auditorium for the show, they were invited to have some light refreshments provided and have some chit-chatting sessions with each others. Everyone arrived looking excited and the eagerness to watch the buddies perform was written on their faces. There were also a lot of them who buy the ticket on the spot, as the brought along their family and their friends too. While having their piece of Samosa and curry puffs, they were looking and reading at the posters displayed at the corner there. There were basically information about Autism and the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM), to let the public understand the important role of NASOM is the society and what is Austism.

The talent show began around 8pm and started off with the limelight was on our two lovely emcees of the event, Nitiakaran and Leena. Followed by the speech delivered by our Chairman of this "BB Got Talent", Ms Thurga. Without wasting much time, Mr Sudesh was invited to deliver his speech and thus officially start the talent show.

First of all, the show began by our very first guest performance - Adeline Chua and Steve Lam.

The second guest performance is by a group of UCSI International student, from Boswania.

Thirdly, the last group performance were the children from NASOM, dressing up colourfully .

There were 14 of them, YES !!!

A number of 14 buddies were showing everyone their talent on stage,, they are nothing different from everyone of us here, they can sing very well, remembered the lyrics; they can dance so well until the crowd were so excited and cheer for them; they can recite poem and impressed the judges as well as the audience; they can draw spontaneously and came out with a colourful piece of art; they can play musical instruments like piano, violin gracefully. Best Buddies had organised this talent show and also a competition, creating a memorable moments for them as they know they are just like us, having the opportunity to have fun and perform on stage in front of all the audience.

Another attraction of the event is the two lucky draw sessions. Varieties of goods were given out to those lucky one, there were GSC free complimentary tickets, tea-set, mugs, soft toys, slow cooker, etc.

The response of the night was very much satisfying and we received positive feedbacks plus some words of encouragement from different people. This is one of the biggest event organised by Best Buddies Malaysia here in UCSI, one of the successful and grand event since Best Buddies is brought in to Malaysia. We are going to have such event again and hopefully to make it an annually event. Lots of improvements still needed and we really appreaciate the help & support we recieved from people all around us, THANK YOU VERY MUCH .

BB Got Talent 09 VIDEO UPLOADED

2009-05-01T10:43:00.003+08:00

Dear all,

You may go to our Video Gallery to enjoy the performance during BB Got Talent 2009.

More video will be uploaded soon.

Don't ever miss this chance again if you miss the live show during that day.

It was great yet meaningful =D

Countdown !! BB Got Talent

2009-03-16T14:38:00.003+08:00

Countdown !!
5 more days to go...

Have you bought the ticket??
No more hesitation !!

It is only RM 10
All the ticket money will be channeled to NASOM (National Autism Society of Malaysia)

It is opened to public !!

Support them
It is the 1st ever chance for people with intellectual disabilities people to perform on the stage !!

If you want to buy the ticket, you may call me at 012-2993593

Bowling in Holiday Villa, Subang

2009-03-08T22:00:00.004+08:00

It was our first time to play bowling with buddies of Special Olympics. The bowling centre in the Holiday Villa provided free of charge bowling for the buddies every Thursday from 5-7pm.

We were invited by one of the buddies' s parent to join with them. For friends and families, we have to pay half price. 3 of us - Omer, Soke Ling and I were excited to meet up with them.

Besides playing bowling, our mission is to also inform parents about our upcoming event - BB Got Talent. I was delighted by the eagerness of parents to know our Best Buddies program, and also keen on signing up their children to join our program. I am glad. Most excitedly, they also interested to allow their children to participate in our Talent Show.

Charmaine, my buddy whose is cheerful, extrovert, sociable, and cute, she greeted us openly when she saw us. She brought us inside the centre, and started to prepare herself for the bowling session.

She waved hands at me and called me to her. "Hui Ru, Cheer for me!!" I love her positive attitude toward anything that she is doing. She also cheered for everyone, in hoping that everyone got a STRIKE. When she scored, she danced excitedly for her achievement.

3 of us - Hui Ru, Omer, Soke Ling & my buddy - Charmaine

This trip - is very fruitful for us, for Best Buddies. For us, we got a fun and enjoyable day with them. We cheered for each other, and make our relationship one step closer. For Best Buddies, more parents know about us, know about our program, and they will help us to spread the news to their friends too.

Bowling - is good for their motor movement. It is an exercise for them. Not to be doubted, some of them played better than us. We were amazed !!

Pose for the day "D

For Best Buddies members, if you are interested to join the bowling outing with them, every Thursday from 5-7pm :D. Let me know, i try to arrange it !!

Special thanks to Charmaine's mum for inviting us. We sincerely love it !!

Love,

Hui Ru

2009-03-02T21:42:00.006+08:00

We are from the Best Buddies Association, from UCSI University, KL Campus.
We will be having a charity event, which is also the fifth event of Best Buddies -- “BB Got Talent” ( bring out the buddies talent )

Date : 21st of March 2009 ( Saturday )
Time : 7pm - 10pm
Venue : Auditorium, Menara Gading, Block C, South Wing, UCSI University KL Campus.

BB Got Talent is organised by UCSI University's Best Buddies Club, where children with intellectual disabilities or Buddies can showcase their talents!
Be it singing, acting or dancing !!!

- This event is open for all UCSI University students, as well as the Public, ( so ask your family or friends to come over to UCSI University, and give us your support )

- We will have lucky draw session, we are giving out huge soft toys, Pensonic Slow Cooker, Coffee Teapot Ser, Etc...

- Light Refreshment will be provided as well...

- Tickets are selling at the BOOTH, at Lobby, Block A, UCSI University, 11am - 4pm ... ( drop by anytime for more info ) Of course, You can get it from ME too, only at RM10 ...

For more information, please contact:

Hui Ru: 012 - 299 3593 / Thurga: 014 - 929 4208

Also, you can visit this : http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=53943963189

SDCU Appreciation Night ...

2009-02-03T13:41:00.003+08:00

It's the beginning of a brand new year of 2009, here we are, Best Buddies were involved in an recent event -- SDCU Appreciation Night. This event was organised by the Student Development & Counselling Unit, under Student Affairs. It was held at BlockB, starting from 6pm to 9pm, on the 21st of January . Best Buddies, Peer Counselling and Will Group were invited to this event with the objectives of getting everybody together and knowing each other. All the members, advisors, failitators were invited to this event, in order to appreciate their hardwork, passion and commitment involving in the their works all this while.

The place was decorated with baloons, some "thank you" words of different language were pasted on the board to show appreciation, a very lively and colourful setting were finally finish decorated. Soon, while everyone had arrived, the event had came to alive and thus everything was going smoothly. The emcee of that day were Simon and Ms Menaga, they did a fantastic job that night by making the event not too dull, cracking some jokes from time to time. Without wasting time, Dr Lachman, vice president of Student Affairs was invited to give a speech. Shortly, the dinner started as everyone was treating themselves a sumptuous buffet style dinner. They were seen savouring their fried rice, fried chicken, sandwiches, local delights - kuih while chit-chatting with each other.

After that, Shue Ling was taking over and in-charged of the ice-breaking session. Each and everyone were asked to introduc themselves, and their names have to be remembered, as it is for the next game. Several games were prepared earlier and was conducted in an organized way. All of them were enjoying themselves, laughing around and of course, moving around instead of sitting at their own place. The event was indeed getting more lively and people were starting to interact with one another. Later, everyone was sitting on a chair, forming a big circle, and then proceed to the session. It was a sharing session, where each of us who are Best Buddies members, Peer Counselloers, Will Group facilitator have to talk about how we feel, what we expect in the future. From there, we know what others do, what activities they've done, and know more about their works all this while.

Then, after going through some names writing, lucky-drawing other's name, message dedicating( write anything to the person whose name been drawed ) It was fun and exciting session because we were so eager to know who got our names and what have they written about us. We were all required to wrap the small glass with the give materials like colourful wrapping plastic, a string and to put the message into the glass. After all these, it's the time to exchange the gifts. Besides, some souvenirs were also prepared and given by our advisors, with a small message nicely put inside the tiny bottle. Messages were full of appreciation words, thanking each other for the efforts we have put in, the time sacrificed, the passion in doing certain things and etc.

Around 9pm, the event had came to an end, people were enjoying themselevs, making some new friends, knowing what the other groups of people were doing . So, this is consider first event that Best Buddies had involved in this new semester in 2009, we have been working with the Peer Counselling members, the will group facilitators as well as all the advisors, in order to organised to such wonderful and meaning Appreciation Night. Thank you everyone for the effforts and hardworking.

More News coming up...

2009-01-22T18:57:00.003+08:00

After all this while, our effort is worth it !!! Here are 2 news about BEST BUDDIES news in our official UCSI website, reporting on the previous 2 main events that we ahd organized and successfully done.... Thanks a lot to our beloved and supportive members, advisors, and those who volunteer and help out a lot.. Thank you !!!

This is the about Best Buddies Welcoming Party, which was held on 20th September 2008 ...

http://www.ucsi.edu.my/news/latest/2008/bestBuddies.asp

On the 30th December 2008, again, we, Best Buddies had organized a Pot-Luck Gathering...

http://www.ucsi.edu.my/news/latest/2008/potLuck.asp

Go ahead, click into this 2 link, and you'll be able the news about our past events, what have we done... and by following this blog, or joining us ( be part of us, Best Buddies members ) , we are having more and more upcoming events in the future...

Dont Hesitate, no worries, join us now !!!

Best Buddies Pot-Luck Gathering

2009-01-17T10:13:00.007+08:00

On the 30th of December 2008, Best Buddies had organized a Pot-Luck Gathering to celebrate the beginning of the new relationship with the buddies and their parents as well. We are now one step closer, narrowing the gap between each other and strengthen the bond in between. The reason we had this gathering is to bring everyone together, to let us know more about the parents and our friends with ( the buddies ) learning disabilities.

As time passed, members and the guests were arriving and soon filled up the seats in the room which was nicely decorated and highlighted with a Christmas tree. The chairs were arranged in a party way, where we had plenty of space in the middle to move around and for game time. Our first guest had brought us fried rice and some brought along cakes and jelly. Without wasting our time and since everyone were waiting eagerly for the dinner time, our Best Buddies advisor had a few words welcoming the guests, talking about the objectives of this gathering, then she announced that dinner is ready and the guests were invited and enjoy their meals. Everyone was savouring the sumptuous food prepared by almost all of us, we were spoilt with a wide variety of food like fried rice, spagetti, mash potato, nuggets, sushi, salad, jelly, agar-agar, and cakes.

Needless to say, everyone was enjoying their meal and had a great time chit-chatting as well.

Later, we proceed to the game session after resting for a while after our dinner. There were a few creative games which brought us all laughing, running and dancing around, talked to each other. This was indeed a good way to bring us all together, definitely breaking the ice and we were like one big family having fun time.

They really made an effort to contribute something and they are very much appreaciated. They had made a difference in our life since the day they decided to attend our first event until now, they support Best Buddies physically as well as morally. Let spread our love and continue this priceless relationship called - - FRIENDSHIP ..

Thank you very much, sincerely from our heart...

Let the feast begin !!!

We are one big family....

Ker Shin is giving out some token of appreaciation to the guests .

Karaeok Session !!! Y.E.A.H

Our group photo *peace*

by the way, every single pictures taken had been uploaded in the album, go grab them lar !!! ( sorry because only now i'm uploading them, my apologies.... )

A tribute to Best Buddies Disability Awareness Workshop 2008

2009-01-13T16:41:00.006+08:00

I found some of this pictures in my back-up discs and thought of making this video to commemorate our very first event organized in UCSI University. A lot of work and dedication were build upon the commencement of this event as it got the ball rolling for Best Buddies in UCSI Univeristy as well as Malaysia.

Thank you again to all that are in support of Best Buddies. May we continue to grow and learn together.

Cheers,

Nitia

Friends are Quiet Angels

2008-12-07T11:55:00.003+08:00

This YouTube video clip touches my heart.

I hope to share with everyone of you, who has a friend and who needs a friend :D

Enjoy it and you may put a comment here :)

Best Buddies Welcoming Party Video uploaded !!

2008-12-06T08:01:00.002+08:00

Dear all,

Check it out Best Buddies Welcoming Party in our Video Gallery :)

You will love it !!

Sharing from Omer

2008-11-25T22:31:00.002+08:00

Hello Everyone,

Today is the first time I am contributing to the Best Buddies Blog. First of all, I would like to congratulate to all of us, that our club was mentioned in the Star Newspaper and I feel that this is a new achievement for all of us. Last Sunday, I went out with Hui Ru to accompany Charmaine and Wai Keen. Firstly I have to admit that this was my first one-to-one experience with a L-D person. I was always worried that how would I take care of the person, and what types of problems/experiences will I encounter. I always felt that the first time I will go out with them then only I will feel and understand the concept of Best Buddies in deep detail, and I would be able to understand the needs and improvements that we can make to make the experience a more deeper and long lasting one.

Firstly we picked up both of our beloved friends and met their parents. The parents have hopes in their eyes as well as concern and worry for their children. Best Buddies is new for them and it is new for us as well. Both of us share the common goal of making Charmaine and Wai Keen happy. From the moment they sat inside our car, I greeted them, they replied so happily and with so much warmth. The first sentence I asked them was "What do you think about Madagascar 2?". They said " No, we have not seen but my friends tell me is very nice". Then I said "Do u like Harry Potter?", they said "Heli Copter?". Then, they bursted into laughter. ha ha ha ha lol . Their humor is very innocent and cute in the sense that they think straight and they are not shy to express their views and feelings on topics.

We had a lot of chit chatting asking about their birthdays and stuff like that. After we reached the Shopping mall, the guy Wei Keen requested to buy drinks and pop corn, so i went with him. The most funniest thing is he told me, " Please don't tell my parents that I am eating pop corn and drinking pepsi and 100 plus". My parents don't allow me to take so much sweet. I said its okay. This is the thing I want to make u guys aware about, You will discover new things on the way, when you spend time with them. For instance, I asked Wai Keen that which drink will you consume first, 100 plus or pepsi. He said:" I don't know I really have to think and make a decision". Even a small decision, they actually take time to think of.

In the middle of the movie, He started to jump on the seat and was very excited, for the characters of the movie. People around us were looking at us, but I pretended as nothing went on. At this moment I was astonished and shocked of the sudden act, but I tried to give him a comfortable atmosphere. The movie ended and both of them enjoyed the movie. After we came out, people were looking at us very weirdly. There was this young chinese lady was looking at our faces and our buddies faces, I was a bit overwhelmed by her behavior.

We dropped them back home, their parents were very grateful. The buddies had a lot of fun, and We were happy for them. Chamaine is a very nice girl, and she is very funny to talk with, while Wai Keen is very independent and talks less in detail..

After the day was over, I felt very hungry becuase I was careful to their needs and was paying attention to everything. Thus hungry, It was a fun day, and the movie was really funny. I enjoyed Alex the lion.

Hope you guys can get some experiences out of this story and can imagine how it is like, its really fun and you will love it :-)).

Signing Off,

Omer.

Best Buddies on PRESS !!

2008-11-24T17:26:00.002+08:00

Newspaper: The Star

Column: Education, Campus

Title: Best Buddies

Date: 23 November 08 (Sunday)

Check it out if you have the newspaper in your hands...

If not, click on the link below

Best Buddies

I want to MOVE IT..MOVE IT..

2008-11-23T21:22:00.010+08:00

Charmaine and Wai Keen are adorable when they sang "I want to move it..move it"

"I want to move it..move it..." is the song for the movie - Madagasca: Escape to Africa

Yes, first time Omer and I brought Charmaine and Wai Keen (Buddies) for a movie today...

When i smsed Charmaine about the movie plan, she was very excited and asked me "What time? Where?"... I never thought that she will be interested with my plan...I am pretty much delighted and looking forward to have a movie with her...

Hence, we decided to catch up a movie during this sunny Sunday..So, 4 of us chose a 3:30pm movie in a cinema which nearby their house...

Initially, i thought that it will be easier for me to talk to them.. Out of my expectation, i realized that they hardly understand our words. However, we never give up. We tried to listen to them, and laugh with them. By asking their daily life routine, we managed to catch up with them better. We also tried to repeat our words in order for them to understand what we are trying to convey.

I was a bit panicked when Charmaine told me that her ears were painful at the beginning of movie. I was worried about her..But, she said she was alright. I guess she wasn't adapt to the loud noise in the cinema. Luckily, everything went well till the end of the movie.

I was also afraid that they are bored and unhappy for this trip. "Thank you for bring us out for a movie" they were thankful for our deed and they love the movie. Finally, we were relieved, and also feel much very touched by their little words.

Another thing that i must mention is...their parents are really lovely. First of all, they willing to allow their children to go out with us. Secondly, they are open hearted. Thirdly, they are thankful that what we have done.

It was really a very meaningful sunday in my life. By spending time with them, i have experienced different type of happiness. They are easily contented, and they could brighten your day with their innocent and true laugh. Nothing need to be afraid of. After experienced it, i feel that i could do it better for the next time. Most importantly, we have to be patient and do it wholeheartedly.

Can't wait to have a second trip with them... :)

This is Wai Keen - funny and adorable

This is Charmaine - caring and cute

Creating Friendships Through UCSI's Best Buddies

2008-11-23T21:07:00.007+08:00

Hello...

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Check it out our UCSI University e-news....

Click the link below...

Creating Friendships Through UCSI's Best Buddies

Best Buddies on HAILER !!

2008-10-22T18:39:00.006+08:00

Hailer is our UCSI University's own newsletter. Hailer is run by a group of students who are interested in writing and be the one report all the events held in our university...

So, here it goes...our Best Buddies Welcoming Party's article is out in HAILER...

Check it out !!

The article : Tea Time with Buddies

Have you ever attended a tea party with a group of vibrant and energetic "special" individuals? On the 20th of September, the Best Buddies Team of UCSI organized a welcoming party especially for a group of "Buddies", Parents and NGOs.

The main focus of the party was to introduce the "Best Buddies program" to the guest as well as to recruit new "Buddies" into the program ("Buddies" is the term used to address individuals with learning difficulties). Furthermore, the party serves as a moment of joy for the "Buddies" as they get to meet new friends and also show off their energetic dancing skills in the process.

A series of activities were planned, which included interactive ice-breaking games, a sparkling performance by "Buddies" as well as short play by the Best Buddies team members. It was indeed a memorable and lively evening for the guests as they mingled around and enjoy themselves. In a nutshell, the organizing teams have put forward a simple yet memorable evening for their guests and i believe that their effort were sincere and genuine. Bravo!

Reported by Nitia

A wonderful night on 29/09/2008

2008-10-17T23:16:00.007+08:00

After the Best Buddies Welcoming Party, we had our post mortem meeting. Normally, our meeting will be conducted in a relaxed and comfortable setting, but this time slightly changed. The meeting was serious, and the CBD was extremely fear and emotionless.

Why we did that? It was due to our secret plan for our beloved advisor.

What was the plan? We planned to throw her a small party for her birthday. So, we decided to make a fool on her.

After finished our group dinner in an ambient cafe, i dragged her to another table to discuss something serious with her. She was frighten. I pretended that I am going to resign from CBD, and i only wanted to be a normal member. She took it seriously and the plan succeeded.

Later on, we went back to our seat, and she was down and sad. Out of sudden, a birthday cake appeared in front of her and we sang a birthday song for her. She can't really enjoy due to our joke was too significant for her.

Hahaha...Anyway "Happy Birthday to You, Ker Shin"

However, it was really a nice dinner with all the Best Buddies members, our beloved advisor, and 3 beautiful special guests. :)

Looking forward to have more gathering in the future.

Memories uploaded :P

2008-09-25T22:14:00.007+08:00

Dear all,

The Best Buddies Welcoming Party's photos finally was uploaded in our Photobucket...

Feel Free to go and grab the photos you like ...

Thanks to "Micheal Phelps" and Doris as our cameraman and camerawoman...

The photos are nice !!

Our beloved family photo :-D

Ending of Best Buddies Welcoming Party

2008-09-21T12:25:00.000+08:00

Finally, Best Buddies Welcoming Party ended successfully. A big applause to Best Buddies members and friends who came to help and support us !!

A month of preparation for a three hours of event, it is really worth our effort and time. We were really grateful to those parents and NGOs who came to support us. They were very friendly, supportive and participative. Their trust and appreciation is a strong antidote for us to be more committed, and we will never want them to regret to join Best Buddies.

The climate of the event - Dance together with Buddies. I really enjoyed this precious moment. I felt so relaxed and i could dance freely. Although i can't dance as good as them, but it was fun to dance with them. If you were there, you would be impressed by their dancing skill. The dancing was fast, but they could catch up in just a second. Bravo, buddies !!

A good news for us - we could submit an article regarding this event to a reporter of Challenger magazine, and she will help us to publicize in that magazine. Wah...a golden offer for us. Best Buddies will be known by more people.

"You make a difference to me" - A "leaf" ribbon that we gave to someone who we thought made a difference in our life. When i passed the ribbon to them, they were touched and delighted. I also felt happy when people came and pinned on my shirt.

Good job, Best Buddies team

Words can't explain how much i appreciate those NGOs, parents, buddies and supporting friends who came to our party. Anyway, THANK YOU for your SUPPORT !

Best Buddies, we can do it !!! Keep up the spirit, let's work hard together as a team ...

Regards,

Hui Ru

The importance of Friendship

2008-09-07T00:37:00.001+08:00

Personally, i felt that friends are very important in our lives. It is not easy to keep a friend, but it all depends on our effort in maintaining our friendship. We should always express our care and love to our friends, let them feel that you still remember them. Without contacting each other, how the friendship be continued?

"Friends never abandon us. They always be there for us. They are willing to share our pain and sorrow, they also happy for our achievement"

If you already found a friend who you would love to spend time with, treasure your friend. Most importantly, remember to keep the friendship active. Maybe a simple message "How are you, my friend" already brighten their day.

"A good friendship does make a difference in our lives"

From,

Hui Ru

Tea Time with Buddies

2008-09-04T23:36:00.000+08:00

Attention to people who are interested to join Best Buddies!!

On 20th September 2008, we will have a party for Buddies, their Parents and NGOs. This party is organized by Best Buddies team, the venue is in Recital hall from 3:00pm till 6:00pm. Refreshment is provided.

Buddies, parents and NGOs are invited. They will be introduced what is Best Buddies. Most importantly, we will be able to get a chance to interact with buddies. Nonetheless, we cant forget our objective of party which is Getting Buddies to join our program, in order for us to form a friendship between college buddy and buddy.

Can't wait anymore... Games, performance, video showing, interactive session and etc are planned!!

Who are interested to come to the party? You may contact me, at 012-2993593 or email us at bestbudddies.ucsi@gmail.com

Remember, this is for people who would like to have a friendship with learning difficulties people..

Leadership Training 23th August 2008

2008-09-04T22:58:00.000+08:00

This leadership training was organized by Malaysian Care, Friendship Club. Can you imagine that people with learning disability actually were the organizer for this event?? I really impressed by them.

So, Ker Shin and I managed to join their training. In the training, 50 people of learning disabled attended. They came from Ipoh, Penang, PJ, Kajang and KL. I was so excited and thrilled because i able to know them!!

They are determined, creative and participative. The training was emcompassed with story telling, balloon games, cat walk, and etc.

Do you able to pop through the ballon with a satay stick, but the ballon is not blust?? Do you know how?? The learning disable buddies taught me how to do...So great, the lesson really taught us "Nothing is impossible".

"Got ideas" encouraged the buddies to walk in different pattern. "Hee hee ya" is the sound we made to cheer them to participate. They are fantastic. I can't even think of any great ideas to walk, but they do!! It really showed their creativity.

Through this training, they learnt not to give up, teamwork, creativity and nothing is impossible. Buddies are independent, and they are approable. They are friendly and warmth. They willing to share their opinions with all of us.

Buddies, you are great. I love you.

Regards

Hui Ru

Best Buddies Disability Awareness Workshop 14th July 2008

2008-09-04T21:17:00.000+08:00

Best Buddies Association is very new in UCSI and now, it is in full throttle since the start of May 2008. The mother organization, Best Buddies International is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships. It is well known overseas and has been established in many countries already. However for Malaysia, UCSI is the first college to host it. The UCSI Best Buddies had its first event on May 15th in partnership with Malaysian Care.

Last month Malaysian Care, a non-profit organization was invited to deliver a workshop on people with special needs. The workshop was made of interactive activities, among which some included being in the shoes of a disabled people. Some special needs persons were invited to share their views and additionally the event had videos, discussions and speeches. We were glad to receive many favorable responses from students who attended the workshop. The committee would encourage similar events in the future. We wish to thank our collaborators, Malaysian Care, Student Affairs and of course our advisor Ms. Ker Shin, Students Affairs and of course Malaysian Care.

For anyone who is interested to join Best Buddies, you are welcomed to give us a call at Hui Ru 012-2993593 or email at bestbuddies.ucsi@gmail.com

Prepared by Leena,
Secretary of Best Buddies

ALOHA !!

2008-09-04T20:53:00.000+08:00

Aloha is a Hawaiian word to say "Hello"
In deeper meaning, Aloha is "I recognize the same breath of life within you as i have within, and wish to present from me". So, our recruitment drive on 23rd June 2008, being called as ALOHA.

Aloha - to create awareness to all the UCSI students about the existence of Best Buddies. We wanted to introduce Best Buddies to them, as well as recruit potential members to join our team.

The event encompassed games and slide presentation. The participants who were present enjoyed the event.

ALoha, to all the UCSI students

Best Buddies - it is all about friendship

Do you like to make friend? if yes, join us now!!

Who we are?

2008-09-04T18:21:00.000+08:00

What is Best Buddies?
Best Buddies International is an Non profit Organization which it aims to enhance an one to one friendship with learning difficulties people and provide integrated employment. It has 6 programs proposed, which are Best Buddies Middle Schools, BB High Schools, BB Colleges, BB Citizens, BB Jobs, and e-Buddies.

Best Buddies, its headquarter is in Miami, Florida, founded by Anthory K.Shriver in 1989. Best Buddies is not only developed in US, however it spreads their services to other country as well successfully. The countries involve such as Singapore, Australia, Egypt, Hong Kong, Philippines, Spain, Ireland and etc.

For Further explanation, you may click on www.bestbuddies.org

Best Buddies Malaysia
UCSI is the first chapter of Best Buddies in Malaysia. Best Buddies is formally formed on May 2008. We introduces the program of Best Buddies Colleges.

Best Buddies Colleges - Forming a one to one friendship between college students and learning difficulties people in at least one academic year.

We, as college students called as college buddy, however learning difficulties people called as buddy.

Currently, we have 11 members to join our program. In order to join our program, you have to sign up membership application and matching survey. Later on, an interview is conducted to ensure the quality of our members.

Why Best Buddies is important?
Learning difficulties people are always social excluded and being discriminated by the society. They have no friends except friends who also learning disabled like them. Best Buddies, give us, youngsters have a chance to become friend with them. We give them a new experience and new opportunity to have friend likes us. We are not only be their model, their mentor, their friend, thus they also can become our close friend, our inspirator, our motivator as well. We are making a difference in their life, and they do the same as well.

Commitment in Best Buddies
a) Contact your buddy in a weekly basic such as sms, email, call and etc
b) One to one outings twice a month
c) Maintain the friendship at least 1 academic year
d) Actively involve in Best Buddies activities

So, what are you waiting for? Don't be hesistate to contact us and know more about Best Buddies. Our email address: bestbuddies.ucsi@gmail.com or you may call 012-2993593 (Hui Ru)