From 1–3 August 2025, I joined Play14 Kuala Lumpur at Sunway University, and it completely changed how I see play in adult learning.
Play14 is not a typical conference. It’s an unconference where there are no fixed presentations. Instead, participants create the agenda together. This open-space format encourages curiosity, teamwork, and creativity.
Research shows that play builds skills like problem-solving and creative thinking. It also gives learners autonomy and purpose, which help them learn more deeply. In Malaysia’s early childhood education, play is already recognized as a key approach for cognitive, social, emotional, and language growth, and it works just as well for adults.
At Play14 KL, I took part in many games, each with its own lesson. I even facilitated my own, English from Zero to Hero—with participants from Malaysia, Japan, and Germany. The game challenged players of all levels to answer questions depending on where their pawn landed. I received valuable feedback that will make the game even better next time.
Some of my best moments were seeing professionals from different fields laugh, collaborate, and learn together. In this shared space, anyone could propose an activity, and the playful atmosphere broke down barriers. Coaches, educators, and developers all stepped into the “play zone” with openness and enthusiasm.
Why Play Works for Learning and Workplaces:
- Learn by Doing – Play turns ideas into real experiences that stick.
- Boost Creativity – Play encourages safe experimentation, leading to innovation.
- Adults Learn Too – Play isn’t just for kids; it helps adults learn better when they’re relaxed and engaged.
In short: Play14 Kuala Lumpur proved that play is not just fun—it’s essential. Whether in classrooms or workplaces, play can spark engagement, discovery, and transformation.
Sharifah Salwa
