The Asia Pacific Down Syndrome Federation (APDSF) Annual General Meeting was held successfully in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, bringing together 17 countries committed to advancing the welfare and opportunities for individuals with Down Syndrome. Participating nations included:
Australia, Bhutan, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, UAE, and Vietnam.
Day 1: Engaging Sessions and Cultural Exchange
The event commenced with Country Reports where delegates shared updates, challenges, and success stories from their regions. Simultaneously, an engaging Art Session was conducted by Dr. Esther Joosa.
Dr. Marco Roncarati, Social Affairs Officer at the United Nations ESCAP Staff Association, delivered a thought-provoking session on “Enhancing Intergenerational Solidarity and Benefits by Better Understanding Psychosocial Issues.”
The day concluded with vibrant Cultural Events, where participating countries showcased their unique talents from their respective countries, followed by a delightful APDSF Delegates Dinner.
Day 2: Key Discussions and Insights
The second day began with the APDSF Annual General Meeting, which included:
- Attendance and confirmation of previous meeting minutes
- An opening address by the President
- Reports from Secretary General Shri Ashish Bengra, IPS (Retd.) and the Finance Committee
- Discussions led by the Medical Committee Chair on outcomes and future directions
In the afternoon, Dr. Surekha Ramachandran delivered an inspiring talk on Self-advocacy and how it was important for parents to understand their children and stand by them. Her insights on the role of strong parental support resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom vowed to share these lessons with their communities.
Success and Reflections
The AGM concluded with renewed energy, collaboration, and commitment from all delegates. The participants departed with new knowledge, stronger networks, and a shared vision for improving lives. A proposed sightseeing tour was also planned to enrich the cultural experience of visiting delegates.
The event was a remarkable success, leaving everyone with valuable takeaways and strengthened ties within the APDSF community.
Country Reports
