Organization: HOSPITAL KUALA LUMPUR, HOSPITAL PUTRAJAYA, HOSPITAL TUNKU AZIZAH & HOSPITAL REHABILITASI CHERAS
Title: World Hearing Day 2026 – Malaysia: From Communities to Classrooms, Hearing Care for All Children
Al title (for format and translation – not permanent:
Malaysia National World Hearing Day 2026
Description:
In conjunction with World Hearing Day 2026, Malaysia observes the national-level celebration on 10 and 11 April 2026, in alignment with the global theme established by the World Health Organization: “From Communities to Classrooms: Hearing Care for All Children.” This observance reaffirms the nation’s commitment to providing accessible, inclusive, and comprehensive ear and hearing care services for all children. The event, officiated by the Minister of Health Malaysia, YB Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly bin Ahmad, demonstrates strong national leadership in promoting early detection, timely intervention, and the integration of hearing care into primary healthcare and educational environments. The program underscores the collective responsibility of communities, families, educators, and healthcare professionals to safeguard children’s hearing health and support their communication and educational development. A range of community-centered activities is conducted to promote awareness and early identification of hearing loss. Free ear and hearing screening services are offered to children and members of the public, enabling early detection and appropriate referral for further management. Health promotion and educational booths will provide information on safe listening practices, early signs of hearing loss, and available intervention and rehabilitation services. The celebration also features a community fun walk that symbolizes a collective commitment to better hearing health. Performances by cochlear implant and hearing aid users highlight inclusion, empowerment, and the potential of individuals living with hearing loss. Cultural presentations, including band and kompang performances, together with traditional “back to kampung” games, foster community engagement and public participation. A lucky draw session further encourages involvement throughout the program. The national-level celebration brings together policymakers, healthcare professionals, educators, non-governmental organizations, parents, and community members in a unified effort to advance hearing care for all children. Through sustained collaboration and community engagement, Malaysia continues to strengthen its commitment to prevention, early intervention, and inclusive support systems—ensuring that every child has the opportunity to hear, learn, and thrive.
Primary site: WPR – Malaysia
Region: WPR
Secondary sites:KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
Impactful Story:
Ear and hearing screenings were conducted following the completion of the fun walk activities. A large number of participants took part in the screening, and individuals who did not pass were referred to the nearest hospital for further evaluation and management. The screenings were carried out by a multidisciplinary team comprising an ENT specialist, medical officers, an audiologist, and an audiology student. This program also provided a valuable learning opportunity for the audiology student to gain practical clinical experience.
General Photos
Official gimmick launch ceremony officiated by the Minister
Participants with Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe (WHO reps)
Participants of the fun walk prior to the official flag-off
Awareness placards displayed during the fun walk
Types of Engagement:
Live event: Yes
Screening: Yes
Traditional media: Yes
Social media: Yes
Special needs populations: persons with disabilities (including hearing loss), children and adolescents, older adults, parents, teachers, health workers at primary care
Met with individual policymaker: Yes
Participation of policy makers: Yes
Participation of influencers: No
WHO technical tool used: Yes
WHO educational and social media used: Yes