A pupil speaks about inclusion
Choy said schools should enable “children with disabilities and without disabilities to learn together”. Other children spoke about an inclusive society and climate action. Speaker Johari Abdul announced plans for a youth parliament with 222 representatives the following year, opening a discussion about young people’s role in national decisions. [1]
Photographs carry children’s demands
The parliamentary exhibition drew on Picture My Rights, a competition launched in July 2023. Its themes included dignity, education, protection from violence and participation. By the November event, UNICEF had received more than 300 photographs showing how young people understood their rights and everyday concerns. [1]
Participation extends onto the football pitch
UNICEF’s 2023 annual account also recorded a Kick for Inclusion clinic with Johor Darul Ta’zim Football Club. Seventy children aged seven to 17, with and without disabilities, participated. Youth coaches led the sessions, giving shared play a practical place alongside the parliamentary discussion of inclusion.