Racing to raise funds for kids with Down syndrome

Popular treasure hunt returns to drive message of support from Selangor to Perak

Four decades in the running, the Motor Treasure Hunt by Kiwanis Club of Kuala Lumpur (KCKL) is back again this year.

The fun-filled treasure hunt, now in its 41st year, will be held from Aug 10-12.

During the hunt, participants will drive from Shah Alam, Selangor to Taiping, Perak and uncover clues along the way in order to win.

The race aims to raise funds for the Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation (KDSF) National Centre.

Organising chairman of the 41st Kiwanis Motor Treasure Hunt Rina Lim said the goal was to raise RM500,000.

“For almost 50 years, people from diverse backgrounds have joined in and helped us to help the KDSF.

“The KDSF needs at least RM1.1mil annually to run its operations catering to children with Down syndrome aged from two months up to six years old,” said Lim.

This year’s theme “The Rise of AI” incorporates the letters “AI’’ which is found in this year’s destination – Taiping.

The pronunciation “ai” also means “love” in Mandarin.

A special performance by Tan Sri Dr Sak Cheng Lum at the launch of the 41st Kiwanis Motor Treasure Hunt.

The theme aligns with KCKL’s aim to spread love and kindness.

KDSF National Centre patron Toh Puan Ena Ling said the event was not just about fun and excitement.

“It is also a testament to the strength and resilience of the KDSF community and those who tirelessly support this cause,” she said.

Established in 1976, KCKL is part of Kiwanis International and is the first club under Kiwanis Malaysia, which now has 42 clubs all over the country.

The treasure hunt attracts more than 400 participants each edition, and has successfully raised RM8mil for various charities over the last 40 years.

The proceeds of previous treasure hunts were donated to local charity-run homes until KCKL established its own non-profit centre – the Kiwanis Down Syndrome Centre.

The hunt has raised funds averaging about RM200,000 to RM300,000 every year.

Founded in 1989, KCKL members have provided early education to over 2,000 children with Down syndrome.

Specifically, the KDSF has been providing Early Intervention Programmes (EIPs), therapies and educational support.

The funds raised are needed to continue these activities.

The event’s main sponsors include Star Media Group, Spritzer Bhd, LBS Foundation, Smartech International Sdn Bhd and IOI Foundation.

To register by July 25, visit https://bit.ly/KTH41entry