DISSABILATIES DISCRIMINATION - SDG 10

 

    Discrimination against people with disabilities is a problem everywhere, including Malaysia. People with disabilities in Malaysia continue to encounter several obstacles and biases that restrict their access to healthcare, work, education, and social inclusion despite attempts to promote inclusivity and equal opportunity.

    As a Malaysian, I can see a lot of difficulties that people with disabilities suffer. One of it is the absence of accessible infrastructure. Other than that, when looking for work, people with impairments frequently experience prejudice. Employers can have false beliefs about what people with disabilities are capable of, which would result in less employment prospects and uneven treatment at work. Lastly, there are still pervasive social attitudes and biases towards people with disabilities in Malaysia. Disability doubles a person's chance of getting illnesses including depression, asthma, diabetes, stroke, obesity, and poor dental hygiene. Numerous health disparities affect people with impairments.

    I believe that all people must be treated equally including people with disabilities because they are human too. Disability etiquette promotes goodwill and respect among all people. It helps make society more inclusive for everyone. People with disabilities make up the largest minority group in Malaysia. Based on the research that I made , Malaysian has taken a few steps to address disability discrimination including the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2008 protects people with disabilities from discrimination and advances their legal rights. The legislation places a strong emphasis on the necessity of reasonable accommodations, accessibility, and equal opportunities across a range of industries, including public services, employment, and education. The Malaysian government also has implemented inclusive policies and initiatives to promote the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. The National Policy for Persons with Disabilities (2020-2030) aims to enhance their quality of life, focusing on education, employment, accessibility, and social participation. Efforts are being made to develop inclusive educational settings, provide vocational training, and create employment opportunities. 

    Not only that , Malaysia has made efforts to enhance its physical infrastructure and transport networks because it understands the value of accessibility. The Barrier-Free Environment and Accessible Transport Group actively promotes the accessibility of public areas, structures, and modes of transportation for people with disabilities. Ramps, allocated parking places, and accessible public amenities are all included in this. All  the steps taken was following the SDG 10 which is " strive to reduce inequality within and among countries by empowering and promoting the social, economic and political inclusion of all, including persons with disabilities" which I think giving a lot of benefits to the disabilities.

    Despite all the solutions that have already been done by our government in Malaysia. There are also a lot of recommendations that can be made in terms of state, society, or individual level to improve the lives of these disabled people in Malaysia. 

In my opinion, those with disabilities have their own unique insights regarding their situation. Therefore, it’s better if, in the process of formulating and implementing certain types of policies and laws, especially involving disabled people, these groups of people should be consulted first. They also should give the chance to be actively involved in the making of such policies and laws. The government, specifically the Ministry Of  Education, can create a new subject that obligates all students in Malaysia to learn sign language and how to help or treat when they meet disabled people.

 Other than that, with society's support and acceptance of their existence these handicapped persons will enjoy their lives. This is necessary for the community to understand that people with disabilities have the right to live in the same way as everyone else and do not seek to be born in defective circumstances. Because they experience the same emotions as everyone else, individuals with disabilities (OKU) should be treated with respect. In this regard, parents play a crucial part in instilling in their kids the virtues of love, sympathy, compassion, and assisting others so that they may support the disabled with all of their hearts.

In conclusion, disability discrimination remains a significant issue in Malaysia, progress has been made in addressing this problem. The legal framework, inclusive policies, increased accessibility, and awareness campaigns have paved the way for a more inclusive society. However, there is still much work to be done to eliminate discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Continued efforts, collaborations, and a collective change in societal attitudes are crucial to creating a truly inclusive and accessible Malaysia for all its citizens, regardless of ability.