The human rights commission of Malaysia, Suhakam, commemorates the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
In this commemoration, we stand in solidarity with people with disabilities in Malaysia and around the world.
The theme for this year, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”, underscores the critical role they play in shaping policies, communities and a more inclusive future. It reminds us of the importance of amplifying their leadership to achieve an inclusive and sustainable future.
Leadership is not just about representation; it is also about empowering people with disabilities to actively engage in decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights respected.
We must recognise the efforts of numerous leaders within the community of people with disabilities who have tirelessly advocated for inclusivity, accessibility and equality, often in the face of significant challenges.
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Suhakam commends the recent amendment to the Suhakam Act 1999, which mandates the inclusion of at least one commissioner for people with disabilities in the decision-making process.
To facilitate this commitment, Suhakam urges for the swift appointment of the people with disabilities commissioner to provide necessary support and action for individuals with disabilities.
Suhakam reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding and promoting the rights of people with disabilities, advocating for stronger legislative frameworks, and providing enhanced accessibility and greater opportunities for these people to assume leadership roles across all sectors.
By empowering the leadership of people with disabilities, we can truly create an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Malaysia has been a state party to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for over 14 years. Malaysia signed the convention on 8 April 2008 and ratified it on 19 July 2010. In 2008 Parliament passed the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 (PWDs Act).
It is high time now to incorporate the international convention into the Federal Constitution. In this regard, Suhakam calls for amendments to Article 8(2) and Article 12 of the Federal Constitution to explicitly prohibit discrimination based on disabilities.
Suhakam believes that significant work remains to address the challenges faced by people with disabilities. They need protection against torture and abuse, as well as recognition of their rights to nationality and movement.
Therefore, it is crucial to lift the reservations to Articles 15 and 18 of the UN convention. Suhakam also urges the government to expedite the submission of the national state report on the convention.
Suhakam believes that significant work remains to address the challenges of people with disabilities. They are critically left out of access to education, health, information and employment.
Every people with disabilities needs to be protected against fake, false and inappropriate information. There should be a platform to provide access to accurate and thorough information.
Politicians, policymakers, people with disabilities and the community need to be further educated on the rights of people with disabilities.
Suhakam, therefore, urges the government and all sectors of society to collaborate and take decisive actions to fully realise the rights of persons with disabilities in Malaysia.
Among the measures to be taken is to advocate for amendments to the PWDs Act so as to provide for punishment or remedy for violations of the act.
Together, we can drive meaningful change. This is a crucial moment to embrace the motto “Nothing Without Us” as it highlights the importance of the involvement and contributions of people with disabilities.
Suhakam further advocates for the empowerment of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities.
Suhakam takes this opportunity to stress that state governments must be earnest in their responsibility in ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Suhakam is actively conducting a survey to evaluate the accessibility services provided to people with disabilities by local governments. We urge all local and state governments to take this survey seriously by expeditiously sharing their feedback to improve these essential services.
Additionally, the plan of action for people with disabilities for 2016-2022 has exceeded its two-year timeline and is now positioned for a vital renewal that will strengthen our efforts for the future.
As we commemorate this important day, let us all unite to amplify the leadership of people with disabilities and create an environment that supports their invaluable contributions.
Together, we can build a future where dignity, respect and equality are realities for all. – Suhakam
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
