Ƶ Students and RDA Malaysia: Creating Bridges of Hope Using Equine Therapy
Sixty-seven diploma students in community services set out this semester to aid RDA Malaysia, a non-profit group that empowers children with impairments through equine-assisted therapy (EAT). Their journey—a blend of hard work, creativity, and community spirit—highlights the positive influence of group effort.
In Malaysia, children with disabilities navigate a society where societal attitudes and systemic barriers often limit their possibilities. Many communities, according to a 2016 UNICEF poll, still view disability via a restricted "medical model", which still views disability through a narrow “medical model”, framing individuals as passive recipients of care rather than active participants in their growth. RDA Malaysia challenges this narrative through their work with children at the Bukit Kiara Centre, who engage in horseback riding classes that enhance their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Additionally, the emotional benefits of increased confidence, discipline, and empathy prepare individuals to confront life's obstacles with renewed tenacity, while the rhythmic action of riding enhances muscle tone and coordination, particularly for wheelchair users. For many, sitting on top of a horse is more than therapy; it's an opportunity to view the world from a fresh angle, both physically and metaphorically.
Yet, RDA’s mission faces hurdles. The sustainability of their programmes is threatened by limited public awareness, funding shortages, and volunteer gaps. The unique position of horseback riding in Malaysia makes it even more difficult to draw in sponsors and participants.
Ƶ's students undertook a community service initiative this semester, meant to address these challenges. Starting at RDA's stables, they undertook necessary duties including facility maintenance, mural painting, and merchandise design, all of which were vital for establishing a welcome atmosphere for therapy sessions. But their aim went beyond bodily enhancements. The team generated discussion on disability inclusion by means of social media campaigns highlighting EAT's life-changing influence.
A lively fundraising event hosted at Ƶ Boulevard between March 17 and 21 served as the highlight of their work. The two-day sale buzzed with energy as visitors and attendees explored stalls offering handmade horse-themed stickers, freshly baked treats, and custom phone charms. Live caricature artists captured smiles, while equestrian paintings by Ƶ’s design students drew admiration from the crowd.
Apart from the money collected to offset therapy, the partnership with Ƶ is more than a short-term lift; it is a work towards enduring influence. Every mended fence, painted mural, and shared narrative to help create a more suitable environment for the challenged children, workers, and volunteers— a legacy of optimism reminding us that progress gallops forward when communities unite. Changing does not necessarily call for major gestures. At times, it begins with a kid on a horse coming to terms with having the reins for their path.
Helen Guek Yee Mei
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Email: @email