Our Story

PPKKCTM is a home built on compassion, patience, and long-term care. This is the story of how it began, how it grew with the children, and why education remains a promise – not just a programme.

How It Began

Pusat Penjagaan Kanak-Kanak Cacat Taman Megah (PPKKCTM) was founded by the late Mr. S.K. Manikumar, who was physically handicapped himself. His goal was simple: to give special needs children a safe and supportive place to grow.

In 1997, the Centre was officially registered as a non-profit organisation under the Welfare Department. Not long after, a parent came looking for a place to care for his children while he searched for work – and that moment changed the Centre forever. One child became many. The doors stayed open.

Mr. Manikumar dedicated his life to this mission until he tragically passed away in a car accident in 2006, at the age of 43. His passing left a huge gap in the home.

He was posthumously honoured the New Straits Times–PricewaterhouseCoopers Lifetime Humanitarian Award, presented by the then Prime Minister in December 2006.

After his passing, his wife Mdm. Umah stepped in to continue his work, supported by the trustees, family, and kind donors. She still serves as the President today.

Portrait of Mr. S.K. Manikumar at PPKKCTM

Growing With The Children

Today, the Centre is home to 113 residents, ranging from 6 months to 62 years old. Our longest-staying resident, Amlu – a lady with Down’s Syndrome – has been with us for almost 30 years.

About 88 children have disabilities, including but not limted to: Down’s Syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus, or speech, hearing, and visual challenges.

The remaining 25 children come from challenging family backgrounds. They may not have physical disabilities, but they carry emotional and learning challenges of their own.

At PPKKCTM, we aspire to give every child a sense of belonging, care, and stability. Some days are hard, and we do not get everything right. But we show up every day, and every day is another step toward healing and growth.

Children and caregivers spending time together at the home

Education As A Promise

For us, education is more than schoolwork. It includes everything a child needs to grow — emotionally, socially, and academically.

We focus strongly on character:

honesty
responsibility
compassion
self-discipline

It is slow, patient work, and it changes with the world the children are growing up in — especially with the pull of social media.

At the Centre, technology is not banned. Instead, we guide the children to use it responsibly, balancing screens with outdoor play, hands-on activities, and real-world interaction.

Most importantly, we believe in human connection — the hugs, the guidance, the conversations, and even the difficult moments. These are the things that shape the children the most, even with all the challenges around them.

Children engaged in learning or educational activities at the Centre

Where they are now

Stories That Continue

The care, guidance, and sense of belonging built at PPKKCTM stay with our alumni as they continue their studies, careers, and independent lives.

Sustainability Consultant

Priya Darshini

Priya came to PPKKCTM in 2011, when she was in Form 2, and stayed until 2023. The home gave her a safe place to grow, along with food, clothing, education, tuition, and steady encouragement throughout her school years.

In 2021, she graduated from the National University of Malaysia with a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science. Today, at 29, she lives independently and is building her career as a Sustainability Consultant.

“The home will always be an important part of my journey. It helped me become the person I am today.”

PPKKCTM alumna celebrating her university graduation

Graduate

A Home That Gave Her Hope

For this alumna, PPKKCTM was more than shelter. It was where she felt cared for, supported, and encouraged to believe in herself. The people around her saw her potential, guided her through difficult moments, and taught her kindness, gratitude, resilience, and compassion.

The home gave her an education, a safe place to grow, and the confidence to dream beyond her circumstances. Every lesson and act of kindness helped shape the person she has become.

“The home gave me hope when I needed it most and showed me that our beginnings do not determine our future.”

Technical Associate

Purravina T.

Purravina’s journey was shaped within the walls of PPKKCTM. To her, the Centre offered far more than shelter. It gave her lifelong bonds, important lessons, and the support to build a brighter future.

Today, she is proud to work as a Technical Associate and carries the resilience she developed at the home into the life she is building.

“Thank you for raising me and giving me a bright future.”

Working Professional and Degree Student

Jevaah

Jevaah stayed at PPKKCTM for more than five years. The Centre gave him a safe home, education, care, and steady support during important years of his life. It also helped him build his confidence and gave him the chance to pursue his dreams.

He began secondary school while at the Centre. After leaving, he worked while continuing his studies and completed his diploma. Today, he is pursuing his degree.

“I will always be grateful to Taman Megah for believing in me and giving me a strong foundation.”

PPKKCTM Alumnus

Peeradeep

Peeradeep’s path began at PPKKCTM and later continued at Montfort Youth Centre, where he grew up. Montfort became more than a home. It was a place that helped shape the person he is today.

He remains deeply grateful to PPKKCTM for the guidance and encouragement that opened this path for him and gave him a new direction in life.

“Without their support, I would not have come this far in life.”

Executive, Learning & Development

Ratna Devi

Ratna was raised at PPKKCTM from the age of one. To her, it was far more than a home. It was her family. The support and guidance she received taught her to be disciplined, responsible, respectful, independent, and committed to learning.

Today, she works in Learning and Development within Human Resources. She hopes to give back to society and support others in the way she was once supported.

“They may have been the people who cared for me, but in my heart, they will always be my family.”

PPKKCTM alumnus and founder of DRJ Infinity Studios

Cinematographer, Filmmaker and Studio Founder

A Vision Built from a Strong Foundation

Raised at PPKKCTM from the age of three until 18, this alumnus learned resilience, discipline, confidence, and gratitude. The support he received gave him the courage to dream bigger and believe in himself.

After completing his education, he found his passion for filmmaking and visual storytelling. Today, he is a cinematographer, filmmaker, and founder of DRJ Infinity Studios.

“The Centre gave me a foundation to dream, believe, and build the future I always imagined.”

Our Team & Trustees

PPKKCTM is guided by a hands-on president and a team of trustees who help carry the vision, provide oversight, and support the daily running of the home.