Parkinson Awareness Day: A Convergence of Advocacy, Understanding and Hope

On Sunday, 26th April 2026, around 350 attendees gathered for Perak Parkinson’s Association (PPA)’s annual Parkinson Awareness Day. It was an afternoon shaped by a shared conviction to foster awareness, compassion, and sustained support for those living with Parkinson’s disease.

guest-of-honour YB Jenny Choy (in grey dress) arrives

Fourteen Years of Impact

Since its establishment in 2012, the Perak Parkinson’s Association has steadily anchored itself as a cornerstone of support within the state. Now in its fourteenth year, the association operates from its centre in Taman Mirindi, Ipoh, offering structured weekday sessions that blend physical activity, therapeutic engagement, and peer interaction.

speech by Organising Chairperson Mr Ng Choong Keen

What distinguishes PPA is the sincerity of purpose. It provides a dependable rhythm to the lives of its members, many of whom find reassurance in routine and solidarity in similar experiences. The centre functions as both refuge and resource, where individuals are encouraged to remain active, articulate their challenges, and rediscover confidence in a supportive setting.

presentation of token of appreciation to volunteer (L)

presentation of token of appreciation to volunteer, Mr Chooi (R) who is also PPA VP

Parkinson’s Disease in an Ageing Malaysia

In Malaysia, Parkinson’s disease is an increasingly pressing health concern, particularly as the population continues to age. According to the Department of Statistics, an estimated 20,000 people were living with Parkinson’s in 2018. The condition is closely linked to ageing, affecting around 1% of individuals over the age of 60, with prevalence rising sharply to nearly 4% among those aged 80 and above. These figures reflect not only the nature of the disease but also the demographic shifts taking place across the country.

The burden of Parkinson’s extends beyond prevalence, encompassing both mortality and long-term disability. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that in 2020, Parkinson’s disease accounted for 1,106 deaths in Malaysia, representing approximately 0.66% of all deaths that year. The age-standardised death rate stood at 4.52 per 100,000 population, a metric that allows for more accurate comparisons across countries by accounting for differences in age structure. Based on this rate, Malaysia was ranked 69th globally in terms of Parkinson’s-related mortality.

Beyond mortality, the disease also contributes significantly to disability. A WHO report in 2016 identified Parkinson’s as the fastest-growing neurological disorder worldwide in terms of both disability and death, largely driven by ageing populations. This trend is particularly relevant for Malaysia, where increasing life expectancy is expected to intensify the overall disease burden in the years ahead.

Looking forward, projections paint a stark picture. The Department of Statistics estimates that the number of Parkinson’s patients in Malaysia could increase fivefold by 2040. From approximately 20,000 cases recorded in 2018, the figure may rise to as many as 120,000 within just over two decades. This anticipated surge underlines the urgent need for greater awareness, early detection, and stronger support systems to manage the growing impact of the disease.

Tangible Support

Parkinson Awareness Day was officiated by guest-of-honour YB Jenny Choy Tsi Jen, Deputy Speaker of the Perak State Legislative Assembly and ADUN Canning, whose attendance signalled continued institutional support. She was accompanied by Ipoh City Councillor for Canning Zone Lam Yew Tact and Kampung Simee Village Head Galen Chin, reflecting a cohesive effort across different tiers of community leadership.

A notable highlight was the presentation of a RM5,000 mock cheque to PPA, jointly contributed by the offices of the MP for Ipoh Timor and DUN Canning. The contribution carried symbolic weight, reinforcing the importance of sustained backing for grassroots organisations that operate at the frontline of care.

Awareness Through Practical Knowledge

An informative session by Ms Diong Zhi Zhi addressed the often-overlooked challenges of communication and swallowing in individuals with Parkinson’s. These issues, though less visible than motor symptoms, can profoundly affect independence and dignity.

presentation of certificate of appreciation by PPA President Chris Chai to speech therapist Ms Diong Zhi Zhi (R)

Her presentation moved beyond theory, offering pragmatic strategies that attendees could readily apply. By demystifying these aspects of the condition, the session added a layer of depth to the event, ensuring that awareness was coupled with actionable insight.

Therapy Meets Creativity

The programme’s most compelling moments emerged from the performances by PPA members themselves.

A seated dance routine illustrated how movement can be reimagined with grace and adaptability. The karaoke-based vocal therapy segment revealed the restorative potential of music, particularly in sustaining speech and breath control. Meanwhile, the yoga presentation highlighted the value of measured, intentional movement in maintaining balance and mental composure.

Collectively, these segments reframed Parkinson’s not solely as a condition of limitation, but as one that can be navigated with creativity and discipline.

The culinary spread provided a fitting complement to the day’s proceedings, offering guests a chance to unwind and connect over lunch. The atmosphere was further enlivened by a generous lucky draw, where every attendee received a prize, a meaningful gesture that reinforced the event’s inclusive ethos.

The event drew to a heartfelt conclusion with closing remarks from PPA President Ms Chris Chai, who expressed sincere appreciation to those who made the day possible. “I would like to take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt appreciation to all sponsors and volunteers who have contributed their time, effort, and resources to make this event possible.

“Your support truly makes a difference. Let us continue to stand together to support those affected by Parkinson’s. Even small actions, such as spreading awareness, offering help, and showing kindness, can create a big impact. Once again, thank you for being here today.”