USM PENANG, 2 June 2023 - "The power of the human spirit is stronger than any disability”.

The Sekretariat Sukarelawan India (SSI) Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) today held the SSI Talent Show 3.0, a show that is designed for people who are specially-abled, whereby this event is not a competition, but rather a celebration of the participants’ talents.

The aim of the programme is to provide a platform for individuals with special abilities to share their talents and to promote inclusivity and diversity.

With the theme ‘Disney’, SSI believes that Disney movies often have a strong message of hope, perseverance and inclusivity, that could resonate with the participants and audience of a talent show for people with special abilities.

Present at the officiating ceremony was the Member of Parliament for Bukit Bendera and Penang State Assemblywoman for Seri Delima, Syerleena Abdul Rashid.

Syerleena in her officiating speech said that, she feels that it is important for us to send the message of love, compassion and empathy, as we need to make sure that each and every one of us join hands together, regardless of race, religion and physical abilities to be as part of one nation.

“There’s so much love and respect that I’ve seen in our country, and I would like to thank the organising committee for this programme as I hope this programme to continue in the future with more shows, avenues and platform to truly join hand in hand by bringing love, compassion and respect,” said Syerleena who was also the USM School of the Arts alumni.

Meanwhile, SSI Advisor, Dr. Subramaniam Govindan in his speech said that this talent show is not just about the showcase of exceptional talents, but also paves a path for our specially-abled friends to shine as a star.

“I am proud to say that SSI Talent Show 3.0 is one of the tremendous initiatives brought by SSI for the specially-abled community,” said Subramaniam.

SSI Talent Show for Specially-Abled People 3.0 Project Director, Meenatchi Alagappan in her speech said this programme is a platform where abilities could shine brighter than disabilities and ensures that our beloved and talented participants are being appreciated in every possible way.

“To our specially-abled friends there, you are an inspiration to us all,” she said.

Held at Dewan Budaya USM, a total of 9 performances were presented by USM students and other specially-abled associations.

Also present were the USM Student Representative Council Member, Padmavathy Sanderan; USM SSI President, Logen Naidu Suresh; USM Persatuan Kebudayaan India President, Kabilan Kesavan and principal officers of USM.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa