UNIFIED DRIVE MOVES MALAYSIA TOWARD A DISABILITY-INCLUSIVE FUTURE

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 3 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s effort to become a disability-inclusive nation requires comprehensive cooperation across the entire social and economic ecosystem, rather than relying solely on government initiatives, the Social Welfare Department (JKM) said today.

In a statement to Bernama, JKM stressed that strategic collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, communities and persons with disabilities (PwD) is essential to ensure that policies and programmes deliver real impact rather than remain symbolic.

This whole-of-society approach, it said, forms the foundation of an inclusive ecosystem that not only protects but also empowers PwD as contributors to national development, in line with this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities theme, Masyarakat Inklusif OKU, Kunci Kemajuan Sosial.

It said the private sector is encouraged to adopt inclusive hiring policies, adapt workplaces to meet PwD needs, and provide training and career development opportunities.

“Through corporate social responsibility programmes, companies can also support vocational training, digital skills and the development of inclusive technologies,” it added.

Local authorities (PBT) also play a critical role in enforcing accessibility standards, both physical and digital, including universal design audits and certifications for PwD-friendly buildings.

At the same time, JKM noted that inclusive transformation would not succeed without the support of civil society and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which serve as strategic partners in advocacy, community empowerment and delivery of support services.

It said these NGOs act as a bridge between PwD communities and policymakers, ensuring grassroots voices are heard and channelled constructively.

“Educational institutions and the media also help cultivate public understanding through inclusive education and positive coverage of PwD achievements. The media, in particular, can break down stigma by highlighting PwD success stories and innovations as national inspiration,” it added.

JKM also said that the Community-Based Rehabilitation (PDK) programme remains a cornerstone of rehabilitation and community development for PwD, with more than 580 centres established nationwide.

Several PDKs across the country have successfully implemented community-based economic empowerment programmes (EEP) such as handicrafts, tailoring, urban farming and food production, initiatives that enhance participants’ independence and employability.

Some participants have even started their own micro-businesses with guidance from JKM and local NGOs, demonstrating the effectiveness of community-driven approaches in unlocking PwD potential.

“This approach forms part of a broader community development strategy for rehabilitation, equal opportunities and social integration for PwD. It also adopts the World Health Organisation (WHO) Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Matrix as a guiding tool,” JKM said.

At the same time, the ‘Caring Employer for PwD Award’ recognises companies and small businesses that open job opportunities for PwD, proving that with appropriate training and support, they can contribute productively in the open labour market.

“These achievements show that when the government, private sector and communities work together, social inclusion becomes more than a policy concept. It becomes a reality that transforms the lives of PwD and the society around them,” JKM added.

JKM also runs the Job Coach Malaysia programme, an important platform supporting PwD participation in the workforce by providing guidance on job training, workplace adaptation and self-management.

Various assistance schemes, including the PwD Workers Allowance (EPOKU), Allowance for Bedridden PwD Caregivers (BPT) and Non-Working PwD Assistance (BTB), continue to ease the financial burden of recipients and encourage participation in economic activities.

As of October, more than 803,731 PwD have registered under seven major categories, reflecting growing awareness and trust in the national welfare system, JKM said.

-- BERNAMA