BINTULU: The 2024 Convocation Ceremony and World Disabled Day Celebration underscored the critical importance of empowering individuals with disabilities through specialised training, inclusive education, and heightened societal awareness, all aimed at fostering their full potential and acceptance within the community.

Jepak Assemblyman Iskandar Turkee proposed several initiatives, including the expansion of vocational training programmes that cater to the specific interests and abilities of people with disabilities (PWDs).

These initiatives aim to unlock their potential and allow them to contribute meaningfully across various sectors, including agriculture and handicrafts.

“I encourage more frequent community outreach programmes to raise public awareness about the Special Education Integrated Programme (PPKI). This can reshape societal attitudes towards people with disabilities and reinforce the significance of inclusive education,” he said during the event held at a prominent hotel on Saturday.

Iskandar also called on the public to support government efforts in promoting the registration of PWDs with the Department of Social Welfare Malaysia, emphasising that many parents continue to face stigma and feelings of shame when raising children with disabilities.

“Regardless of their physical or mental conditions, these children are Allah’s precious gifts,” he added.

The event coincided with National Disabled Persons Day 2024, which carried the theme of raising awareness, appreciation, and community support for the accomplishments of PWDs.

Additionally, the celebration honoured the success of nine PWD trainees who completed their rehabilitation at Community-Based Rehabilitation Centres (PPDK) and have since been enrolled in the Special Integrated Education Programme (PPKI) in government primary schools.

Among those present were Chairperson of PPDK Bintulu, Datin Sultan Patimah SKS Ismail, PPDK Bintulu Coordinator Jessica Kemarau, along with other distinguished guests. -UKASnews