KBS To Implement Rakan Muda Programme For PwD Community

SEPANG, Feb 26 (Bernama) -- The Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) will soon introduce a Rakan Muda programme specifically for Persons with Disabilities (PwD).

Minister Hannah Yeoh said the Rakan Muda PwD programme will initially be introduced alongside the inclusive skills training programme for youths with autism and special needs at 13 Institutes of Youth and Sports Skills Training (ILKBS).

She said the programme aims to provide opportunities for students to develop their talents, especially in sports.

"For example, at the National Youth Higher Skills Institute (IKTBN) in Sepang, we provide not only educational facilities but also sports amenities, including a football field. Therefore, if students attend classes in the morning, they should also have the opportunity to develop sports skills in the afternoon.

"By using this approach, we could potentially identify new sporting talents, and future paralympic athletes may emerge from this initiative," she said after visiting IKTBN Sepang today to observe the implementation of an inclusive skills training programme for youths with autism and special needs.

Meanwhile, the ministry expressed hope that the programme will continue to grow, inspire more parents to have confidence and support special youths to achieve their true potential.

It said in a statement that inclusive skills education fosters more independent individuals and contributes to the country's sustainable economic growth.

Since its introduction in 2018, 287 youths with autism and special needs have benefited from the programme, which is implemented across 13 ILKBS nationwide.

-- BERNAMA