Empowering Persons With Disabilities Key To Building An Inclusive Society

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- The empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) is a vital step toward fostering an inclusive society, Social Welfare Department  (JKM) principal assistant director (PWD Development) Datin Dr Rozbizah Abd Aziz said.

She said every individual, regardless of physical, mental, or sensory disabilities, should be afforded greater opportunities to assume leadership roles across various sectors, thereby contributing to national development.

"PWDs must be given the chance to participate in politics and leadership roles so they can represent the issues faced by their community and advocate for their rights in the policymaking process,” Dr Rozbizah said in a statement today.

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She also pointed out the potential for PWDs to thrive in the private sector and entrepreneurship. By opening up career opportunities and providing access to skills training, financial support, and inclusive work environments, these individuals can succeed as entrepreneurs or leaders in their chosen industries.

Dr Rozbizah added that PWDs can also excel in sports and the arts, citing the success of national Paralympic athlete Ziyad Zolkefli as an inspiration for others to achieve excellence in these fields.

She noted other inspiring stories, such as that of Datuk Dr Ras Adiba Radzi, a former senator, and entrepreneur Faizal Ismail, as proof that PWDs can achieve success comparable to those without disabilities.

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However, Dr Rozbizah acknowledged that significant challenges remain in empowering PWDs.

One major issue is societal stigma, which often leads to misconceptions about the abilities of PWD individuals, limiting their access to opportunities for growth and development.

"Many PWD individuals are unaware of their rights, which are protected by law, and this prevents them from asserting themselves," she said, adding that greater public awareness is needed to support PWDs in their daily lives.

Additionally, the lack of disability-friendly public facilities and inclusive public transport remains a significant barrier to mobility for PWDs.

Despite these challenges, Dr Rozbizah highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility for PWDs, including the provision of disability-friendly parking spaces, seating on public transportation and systems to assist those with vision and hearing impairments.

She added that programmes providing skills training, career development, and financial support are also being implemented to help PWDs secure employment and succeed as entrepreneurs.

“Empowering PWD individuals requires collaboration between the government, private sector, non-governmental organisations, and society to ensure equal opportunities for all.

"With the right policies, inclusive education, and widespread support, PWD individuals will not only empower themselves but also emerge as leaders in various sectors, making valuable contributions to the nation," Dr Rozbizah added.

-- BERNAMA