On 21 May 2025, students from SEGi College Kuala Lumpur’s School of Education took learning into the heart of the community through Building Brighter Communities Through Play, a collaborative outreach initiative held at the UTC Sentul Toy Library. Organised in partnership with Toy Libraries Malaysia and supported by DBKL and YTL Foundation, the project brought early childhood education to life by turning an ordinary day into an extraordinary learning experience—for both students and families in need.
Guided by Dr Raihan, President of Toy Libraries Malaysia, students and lecturers participated in a training session focused on toy library setup, management, and the philosophy behind play-based learning. What followed was hands-on work involving toy sorting, space setup, and community interaction—creating a vibrant, inclusive environment where children aged 0–6 can now learn, grow, and play. For SEGi students, it was a meaningful step in applying theory to practice while making an immediate impact on the lives of children in underserved urban areas.
Play is a fundamental right of every child, and research shows that play-based education improves cognitive, social, and emotional development, particularly in the early years (UNICEF). Yet, children in low-income areas often lack access to safe and stimulating environments. By establishing toy libraries within public housing communities, initiatives like this not only promote equitable learning but also build stronger, more inclusive neighbourhoods.
This initiative also equipped Diploma in Early Childhood Education students with valuable skills in leadership, collaboration, and community engagement—skills that are vital for shaping educators who not only teach, but lead change. The programme exemplifies SEGi’s commitment to empowering future educators who understand that classrooms extend far beyond four walls and into the heart of society.
Through play, empathy, and action, Building Brighter Communities Through Play reminds us that education can be both joyful and transformative when rooted in service. This event is organised in support of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):
Goal 4: Quality Education
Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
