Persons with disabilities registry hits 805,509, with data showing rising household incomes and increased participation in education, civil service and sports.
PUTRAJAYA: A total of 805,509 persons with disabilities (PwD) were registered in Malaysia in 2024, representing 2.4% of the population.
Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the latest figures highlight the need for strengthened inclusive policies.
He said 262,618 PwD received assistance from the Social Welfare Department, amounting to RM1.1 billion.
“The largest category comprises unemployed PwD, totalling 120,844 people, followed by the allowance for working PwD involving 106,055 recipients,” he said.
Households with PwD recorded improved income levels, with the median monthly gross household income rising from RM4,390 in 2022 to RM5,104 in 2024.
The average monthly gross household income increased from RM5,679 to RM6,540 over the same period.
“At the same time, average monthly household consumption expenditure grew from RM3,974 to RM4,545,” he added.
Learning disability remained the largest category of PwD in 2024 with 299,128 individuals (37.1%).
This was followed by physical disability at 286,634 people (35.6%).
The number of students with special educational needs increased across all levels in 2024 compared to 2023.
The public sector also saw a rise in PwD representation, with the number of PwD civil servants increasing 7.9% to 4,209.
“Negeri Sembilan recorded the highest increase at 20.1%, followed by Sabah (17.2%) and Kedah (13.2%),” he said.
Participation of PwD in sports improved, with 97 athletes recorded in 2024, a 36.6% increase compared to the previous year.
