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Singapore kicks off first inclusive climbing event for persons with visual impairment
Following the launch of the Disability Sports Master Plan 2024, Singapore marked a new milestone in inclusive sports on 23 November 2024 with the inaugural event of “Merdeka Monkey,” the first inclusive climbing event of its kind in Singapore. Held at Outpost Climbing, this event saw 21 individuals with visual impairments successfully completing climbs with the assistance of sighted climbers.
Held in collaboration with Japan-based nonprofit Monkey Magic, an inclusive climbing movement founded by Mr Koichiro Kobayashi, four-time world para climbing champion in the Men’s B1 category, sighted climbers underwent guided training sessions before pairing with visually impaired participants to navigate the climbing walls together.
“I have learnt a lot from this experience. As part of training, I was blindfolded and made to climb the wall- only then did I realise how difficult it was. Guiding someone with visual impairment up the climbing wall has made me learn how to communicate clearly and build trust,” said Jason Koh.
Conquering the climbs was an empowering experience for Anna Ong, who has vision impairment. “When you are able to make it to the top, you really feel the sense of achievement and proud of yourself. A guide is very important- they let you feel safe and give you the instructions to help you reach your goal easier”.
Outpost Climbing’s Managing Director, Tan Jun Xiang, also expressed how the initiative was meaningful for the climbing gym, “At Outpost Climbing, we want to be a safe and welcoming space for everyone to connect, grow, and progress in their climbing journey. Thanks to all the volunteers, participants and supporting organisations, we are honoured to be able to host a world champion like Mr Koichiro Kobayshi, and realise Singapore’s first-of-its-kind inclusive climbing event.”
Merdeka Monkey, a ground-up initiative, comprises representatives from iC2 Prephouse, the Singapore Association for the Visually Handicapped (SAVH), the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC), Outpost Climbing Gym and A/P Wong Meng Ee, a former national para-swimmer himself and an advocate for inclusive education and sports.
A/P Wong emphasised the group’s mission, “This climbing event was an inspiring testament to the power of connection and shared adventure as sighted and blind climbers came together to scale new heights. For blind participants, it was a unique opportunity to engage in a sport often perceived as inaccessible, fostering confidence, independence, and a sense of achievement. Sighted climbers, serving as guides and partners, gained a profound appreciation for trust, communication, and teamwork, as they navigated pathways through their partner’s perspective. This mutual exchange not only broke down barriers but also cultivated a stronger, more empathetic climbing community where everyone could grow and thrive.”
Building on its success of creating 20 inclusive climbing communities across Japan, this event marks Monkey Magic’s first international collaboration. Mr. Kobayashi, who graced the event to cheer on the new climbers, said, “For nearly 20 years, Monkey Magic has worked tirelessly in Japan to create opportunities for individuals of all abilities to connect and grow through climbing. Extending that experience and vision to our friends and communities across Asia has always been our dream. Today’s event has shown us that the same magic we’ve witnessed in Japan—where climbing brings people together, fostering joy, friendship, and a sense of belonging—is just as possible here in Singapore. This marks the beginning of something truly special. We are confident that, just like in Japan, an inclusive society can take shape in Singapore through the shared experience of climbing. Today is the first step toward that brighter future.”
Through this initiative, Merdeka Monkey aims to empower individuals of all abilities, fostering a supportive community that embraces the sense of independence and achievement that comes with conquering new heights. Future plans include regularising the inclusive climbing sessions as well as expansion of climbing opportunities to individuals of other disabilities,
“Today’s event exemplifies what the Disability Sports Master Plan 2024 has been emphasising – the power of partnerships, volunteerism and inclusive play. Looking forward, we are excited about what the new Enabling Sports Fund can do to encourage more efforts like this, enhancing access to sports for persons with disabilities,” commented Ms Kelly Fan, Executive Director, Singapore Disability Sports Council.
Link to event photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1z3MUiMzsEOXKDkKOcis4X3tDqOV5rHsq?usp=sharing
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