Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation (KDSF) Centres
Nurturing Potential • Empowering Families • Pioneering Early Intervention
Overview & Heritage
The Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation (KDSF) stands as Malaysia’s pioneer and premier non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to early intervention for young children with Down syndrome.
The movement began in 1988, when visionary members of the Kiwanis Club of Kuala Lumpur (KCKL) resolved to create specialized support for children with Down syndrome under the age of six. Working closely with Australian Clinical Psychologist Robert Dellar, KCKL established the first Kiwanis Down Syndrome Centre in Petaling Jaya on 11 September 1989, operating initially from a modest rented bungalow.
In 1990, the Foundation was officially incorporated to ensure long-term sustainability, governance, and national expansion. Over three decades later, KDSF remains the only foundation in Malaysia providing structured, curriculum-based Early Intervention Programmes (EIP) tailored specifically to children with Down syndrome from infancy through preschool years.
Supported by financial endowments from the Kiwanis Khir Johari Foundation (KKJF) and pedagogical development from the Kiwanis Malaysia Academy (KMA), KDSF centres equip children with foundational cognitive, motor, and social competencies to successfully transition into government special education integration programs and inclusive community living.
Our Mission
To help children with Down syndrome reach their maximum developmental and educational potential through evidence-based Early Intervention Programmes, while providing parents and caregivers with the emotional guidance, practical training, and resources required to support their child’s lifelong growth.
Our Vision
To ensure every child with Down syndrome receives the early support and equal opportunities needed to flourish in an inclusive society that values, respects, and celebrates their abilities and contributions.
Core Early Intervention Programmes
Built upon the proven Robert Dellar Curriculum focusing on motor skills, cognition, speech, and independence.
Infant Stimulation Programme
Focus: Sensory stimulation, gross and fine motor milestones, and foundational neurodevelopment.
Parents participate directly alongside therapists to learn early positioning, feeding techniques, and responsive play at home.
Toddler Programme
Focus: Communication, emerging speech, fine motor coordination, social interactions, and guided exploratory play.
Fostering curiosity, attention span, and interactive peer play within structured classroom environments.
Special Education Programme
Focus: Pre-academic foundations, functional literacy, numeracy, self-care routines, and classroom discipline.
Preparing children emotionally and developmentally for entry into the Ministry of Education’s Special Education Integrated Programmes (PPKI).
Parents Support Group (PSG)
Focus: Emotional resilience, shared peer mentorship, caregiver workshops, and family counseling.
Empowering parents so no caregiver feels isolated on the journey of raising a child with Down syndrome.
National Network of KDSF Centres
Four dedicated frontline early intervention facilities across Peninsular Malaysia.
KDSF National Centre (Petaling Jaya)
KDSF Johor Bahru Centre
KDSF Klang Centre
KDSF Melaka Centre
The Kiwanis Ecosystem in Malaysia
How the Foundation, Academy, and Frontline Centres work in synergy.
- Direct Early Intervention Programmes (0–6 years)
- PJ National Centre, Johor Bahru, Klang & Melaka
- Robert Dellar Curriculum & Parent Support Groups
- Special Educator Professional Development
- Clinical Therapy Certifications & Behavioral Toolkits
- National SEN Symposia & Transition Strategies
Support Our Centres & Children
Every child deserves early guidance and the dignity of reaching their fullest potential.
Enrol a Child
If you are a parent or guardian of a child with Down syndrome under the age of six, contact your nearest centre to schedule a developmental assessment.
View Centre ContactsSponsor or Donate
Sponsor an early intervention therapy slot or support centre operating funds through our official donation portal.
Make a DonationCorporate Partnership
Adopt a classroom, fund therapy equipment, or organize an employee volunteering day at one of our four centres.
Partner with KDSF