'Unveiling Uniqueness 2' Concert Highlights Talents Of Special-Needs Performers

By Norhidayyu Zainal

PETALING JAYA, Nov 17 (Bernama) -- A six-member hand-sign choir from Sekolah Kebangsaan Pendidikan Khas Jalan Peel in Kuala Lumpur was among the standout acts at the ‘Unveiling Uniqueness 2: Celebrating Diversity’ concert here on Saturday.

Known as Magika, the group comprises Kyle Fahrel Aidi Shafli, Wong Kok Hao, Wan Nurhanisah Wan Mohd Hidir, Puteri Nur Alyssa Mohd Hanafi, Kayyisa Adra Ibnu Khaldun and Nuur Aufa Hana Mohd Hanif, all pupils with hearing impairments from the school.

Performing to ‘Terang’ by Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza and ‘Golden’ from the soundtrack of K-pop film ‘Demon Hunters’, they delivered precise sign-language formations and synchronisation after a week of intensive training under the guidance of instructors Fazrina Idris and Amril Nurman Lokman.

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Fazrina said the eight- and nine-year-old pupils demonstrated that sign language can be an impactful artistic medium on par with other forms of performance.

“We want to show that even without using their voices, they can deliver a compelling performance when given the right guidance and opportunities,” she told Bernama when met after the concert.

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She said the group began receiving more structured training after their win at the ‘HEAR ME Got Talent’ competition in 2023, where they showcased their acting, dancing and singing talents through sign language.

“Magika was also formed to help build the members’ confidence while raising public awareness about the hearing-impaired community,” she added.

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Another performer, 27-year-old Umar Hasfizal, who has autism, also received loud cheers for his solo performance of ‘Gemuruh’ by Faizal Tahir. He delivered the song confidently while interacting spontaneously with the audience. 

Umar, who has been performing since he was 12, said he was thrilled to return to the stage after his debut last year.

“I feel very happy and excited. This year felt livelier than last year. I hope to perform across the country as well as in Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei,” he said.

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Umar also performed in a group segment featuring the songs ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Clocks’, ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ and ‘Tomorrow’, collaborating with legendary singer Datuk Francissca Peter.

Organised by Musicians for Musicians in collaboration with Music Mart, ‘Unveiling Uniqueness 2’ showcased more than 30 extraordinary young talents with disabilities from all over the country through various musical performances.

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Among them were autistic pianist Raees Aryan; siblings Clarence Kang and Chermaine Kang; blind pianist Natalia Lee Jia En; autistic singer Lee King Tech; autistic singer-songwriter Sarah Ow; motivational speaker and guitarist Ong Boo Siong, who was born with an underdeveloped right hand; and beauty pageant participant and Special Olympics athlete Siti Nur Aisyah Shahimee, who has Down syndrome. Legendary singer Frankie Tan also made a special appearance.

Concert organising chairman Edwin Nathaniel said in his speech that this year’s concert provided a more inclusive platform with the participation of performers of different abilities from various musical and performance backgrounds.

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“This concert is more than just a performance. It is a platform that allows these young individuals to shine. If we don’t create opportunities for them, then who will? The experience of making music teaches them teamwork, patience and confidence.

“Our hope is that this concert not only entertains but also raises awareness about diversity and inclusivity in the arts. The courage and spirit shown by the performers have inspired all of us,” he said.

-- BERNAMA