PETALING JAYA: Requiring all TV channels, including private broadcasters, to provide sign language presenters to deliver news will ensure no hearing-challenged person is left behind, say family and members of the disabled community (OKU).

       National Council for People With Disabilities member and National Autism Society of Malaysia (Nasom) adviser Feilina Feisol lauded the move.

       “This is the best news for the OKU because the deaf and mute community can then understand the news being presented. At least, we don’t leave the deaf behind,” said Feilina.

       Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz had said during the tabling of Budget 2022 that all TV channels, including private ones, will provide sign language presenters to deliver the news.

       Also included in the Budget is a RM30mil allocation to upgrade the infrastructure of government buildings and provide more special lanes for the sight-impaired.

       “All this is a step forward for the OKU who are unemployed; they will be able to work and not discriminated against for their disabilities.

       “In future, we hope more OKU in Malaysia will be employed.

       “That’s what we are pushing for,” said Feilina.

       Another point is the waiving of driving licence fees for people with disabilities.

       “While I’m happy with the government’s decision to waive driving licence fees for OKU, this kind of benefit will only be enjoyed by the intellect-normal OKU,” said Malaysian Down Syndrome Association president Hanizan Hussin, 63.

       On the RM10mil allocation for the Pusat Latihan Berdikari and Pusat Latihan Perindustrian dan Pemulihan Kerajaan on training and guidance programmes for the OKU, Hanizan said: “We are urging the government to also look into giving training to all intellectually challenged individuals.

       “Hopefully, these opportunities will enable the individuals to get job placements or sheltered job employment.”