Malaysia is moving to empower persons with disabilities through rights recognition, inclusive policies, and tackling societal stigma, says minister.
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is transitioning from a charity-based approach towards persons with disabilities to one grounded in rights and empowerment.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the community should no longer be seen merely as needing assistance.
She stated they are citizens capable of contributing, creating and leading when given appropriate access and opportunities.
“This shift requires a change in mindset — from sympathy to respect, from simply giving to empowerment, and from assistance to the recognition of rights,” she said.
Nancy spoke at the closing ceremony of the national-level International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebration.
She said the government is giving serious attention to ensuring comprehensive access to inclusive education and employment opportunities.
The government is also focused on skills development, PwD-friendly public facilities and continuous community support.
However, she noted that societal stigma and accessibility gaps in rural areas remain key challenges.
Other issues include a lack of accurate data and low awareness of PwD rights.
Nancy said efforts include reviewing the National Action Plan for PwDs to align with existing acts and conventions.
The ministry is also developing the integrated MyOKU database for more responsive interventions.
In employment, it is implementing Disability Equality Training and providing Job Coach services.
“The MADANI government is also expanding services and strengthening PwD support infrastructure,” she added.
This includes allocations for institutions, assistance programmes and specialised mobility support.
Nancy urged society to focus on a person’s abilities, not their limitations.
“Inclusive support must come from everyone — the government, the private sector and the community,” she said.
At the ceremony, Nancy presented awards to contributors and PwDs who excelled in various fields.
She honoured a 58-year-old couple who raised three children with disabilities with the ‘Anugerah Ibu Bapa Mithali’.
The couple from Melaka, Abd Aziz Sehat and Roslina Rajudin, raised their three sons to become independent entrepreneurs.
Commenting on the recognition, Abd Aziz said government and community support helped them remain strong.
“To reduce societal stigma, we must give PwDs the opportunity to live among us,” he said.
He added there should be no discrimination against persons with disabilities. – Bernama
