By Geerthinny Jeyashangkar and Esther Lim
On the morning of 16th of September 2023, sounds of cheerful voices and group cheers were
heard coming from Oasis Place as they commenced their yearly event, Malaysia D’Camp, with
this year’s theme “Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges”. Malaysia D’Camp was designed
specifically for neurodiverse young adults, including individuals with Autism, Cerebral Palsy,
Down Syndrome, and Learning Difficulties. Malaysia D’Camp offers a range of inclusive and
accessible activities, including music, exercise, fitness, social communication, and independent
life skills training. The camp’s overarching goal is to provide opportunities for neurodiverse
individuals to establish connections, enjoy recreational pursuits, and participate in activities that
promote a more inclusive and fulfilling life.
The camp took place at the Oasis Place facility, which offers a comfortable meeting hall and café
for campers to gather, indoor spaces like therapy rooms for performance preparation, and
convenient access to a nearby hotel for accommodation, rest, and sports activities. This camp
was organized and facilitated by a team of trained multi-disciplinary therapists from Oasis Place,
volunteers from various regions, and scouts from a local school. Neurodiverse individuals
participated as campers, forming pairs with the volunteers or scouts and joining different
groups. This arrangement allowed them to uncover and share their interests, values, and talents
while creating lasting memories. For many, it was their first experience in a camp alongside
neurodiverse peers.
During Malaysia D’Camp, participants engaged in a diverse range of indoor and outdoor activities aimed at fostering connection and personal growth. Indoor activities focused on team-building and understanding neurodiversity among youths. Participants built human bridges, enjoyed a mall lunch outing, and cherished a virtual campfire evening of games, talents, dancing, and singing. The final day of camp culminated in a moving closing ceremony performance where participants sang “Aku Negaraku” and expressed themselves through art on their “I am” boards.
Outdoor adventures began with a sports carnival, promoting teamwork and support, followed by a cultural walk where participants explored local markets and historical sites. In the midst of this busy schedule, moments of mindfulness and relaxation were interspersed, allowing everyone to recharge and find inner peace. These activities brought participants closer together and allowed them to appreciate the urban beauty and diverse experiences that MDCamp had to offer.
“Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges” as the central theme of Malaysia D’Camp 2023 truly
encapsulated the essence of the event. This camp stood out for its remarkable sense of
community, as participants, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities, came together with a
spirit of openness and acceptance. They forged connections, offered support, and, in the
process, broke down barriers that often separate neurodiverse individuals from participating in
the community. Dedicated therapists, volunteers and scouts played a crucial role in ensuring a
safe and enriching experience for all neurodiverse young individuals, fostering an environment
where everyone could thrive. This camp was a heartwarming and enriching experience,
characterized by fun, learning, and the cultivation of lasting connections. Oasis Place’s
unwavering commitment to inclusivity and community-building was evident throughout,
making it a truly exceptional and transformative event.
English 
Malay