Persatuan Orang Kurang Upaya Melaka To Serve As Voice Of The Disabled

MELAKA, Feb 14 (Bernama) -- The establishment of Persatuan Orang Kurang Upaya Melaka marks a strategic initiative to strengthen ties between the state government and persons with disabilities (PwD), said State Women, Family, and Community Development Committee chairman Datuk Kalsom Noordin.

She said that, despite having received approval from the Registrar of Societies (ROS) only last week, the association would play a central role in addressing the group’s needs and expanding opportunities for talent development and employment.

Kalsom said that, to date, the association had 100 members and its formation was made possible with support from the Social Welfare Department (JKM), state leaders, and strategic partners.

“This association covers seven categories of PwD, such as hearing, visual, physical, mental, and speech impairments, as well as autism, making it an inclusive platform that brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds.

“The establishment is not just about gathering members but serves as a strategic bridge between the PwD community and the state government to ensure no one is left behind in the course of development,” she said after officiating the Santai Bersama OKU Melaka 2.0 Programme and launching the association here today.

Kalsom added that, beyond welfare, the association aimed to identify and develop talent among PwD, particularly in sports, which held strong potential for recognition at higher levels.

“Sports such as swimming, athletics, and powerlifting have been identified as areas where Melaka’s PwD athletes can excel and raise the state’s profile nationally and internationally.

“Many of them have exceptional abilities. We are confident that, with the right support and opportunities, more PwD athletes will achieve success,” she said.

She also said that the association would place strong emphasis on employability and job opportunities to help members become self-reliant and enhance their quality of life.

Kalsom said that, to date, 78 agencies had expressed willingness to collaborate in providing employment opportunities for persons with disabiliti PwD in the state.

“These efforts align with the state government’s goal to ensure the well-being of all citizens, including empowering the PwD community through targeted initiatives and dedicated funding for annual sports events for the group,” she added.

-- BERNAMA