‘Do more to help physically disabled be independent’

0

Jatan (left) presents a token of appreciation to Francis (seated). With them is Sophian.

KUCHING: Accessibility remains a key factor in the physically disabled getting enough education and training to take up employment and achieve independence.

According to Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) Sarawak Commissioner Francis Johen Adam, the public sector had a mere one percent set aside for the disabled in their employment pool, but most agencies had trouble meeting this.

“We don’t blame the government for this. There are not enough disabled individuals (OKU) who are qualified enough to take up a post,” said Francis.

Speaking to The Borneo Post during the ‘Suhakam Bersama Rakyat’ event with members of Sarawak Society of the Disabled (POCS) here on Saturday, Francis added that if the place of employment wasn’t disabled-friendly, they won’t be able to work there anyway.

Public facilities needed more accessibility, and there are by-laws in place to ensure that, he said.

Pointing out that schools and training centres also needed to be more disabled-friendly to enable them to get education and proper training, Francis said that funds could be obtained from the education ministry to make relevant improvements to facilities.

“Suhakam wants to remind stakeholders at the state level that they have the power to change things.

“We want to see the government take lead in making their buildings accessible.

“DBKU and MBKS have played a major role in creating accessibility, but the rest is very slow,” he added.

Francis also urged the civil service to give priority to OKU applicants should they be qualified for a suitable opening.

“If the disabled are educated and get employed, they will rely less on welfare and can help others.”

Also present at the event were Suhakam Sarawak head Sophian Osman and POCS chairman Jatan Kidu.

Jatan said the gathering, held to commemorate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, had great meaning for those in the OKU community.

“We have been celebrating this day since 1994. This celebration is a manifestation and commitment of the government to boost the potential, self-worth and acknowledgement to OKU who have contributed to the development of the country.”

Jatan urged relevant parties to continue improving accessibility for the disabled, especially in buildings, public facilities and environment, so that they too could enjoy the fruits of a fair and inclusive development.

The event also included an introduction of Suhakam and a briefing of OKU rights and current affairs.