By Suhaila Shahrul Annuar
SHAH ALAM, Aug 29 — Selangor is committed to continuing programmes that empower disabled persons to enhance their skills, enabling them to be self-reliant and earn their own income.
The state executive councillor for welfare and women empowerment Anfaal Saari said the Independent Living Support Centre (ILSC) programme introduced last year, for example, aims to provide learning and employment opportunities for disabled people aged 17 to 25.
"So far, 57 disabled youths have successfully completed courses in three programmes, namely cafe management, baking, and information technology management.
"Through these programmes, they underwent classes at Rumah Amal Cheshire, the National Youth Skills Institute (IKBN), and the National Youth Advanced Skills Institute (IKTBN) under the Youth and Sports Ministry," she said in an interview with Media Selangor.
Anfaal said some of the participants have already opened up their own businesses, besides being offered job opportunities via industry cooperation.
“Our goal is for the disabled to live an independent life and be involved in socioeconomic activities. Strong family support, government policies and institutions, as well as partnerships with industries, are crucial to making this initiative a success,” she said.
Anfaal added that the state intends to launch a disability-friendly policy in December that not only focuses on welfare but also covers other aspects including health, education, legal matters, career opportunities, and comfortable infrastructure facilities.
"This takes into account all aspects and needs of the disabled community, from the smallest things like enjoying and accessing facilities like toilets, parking spaces and ramps, to education and employment opportunities," she said.
The support ecosystem for disabled persons also continues to receive attention through the establishment of the Cerebral Palsy Care Unit (CPCU), a specialised programme for the physically disabled with cerebral palsy.
“This model of the support system will be expanded from time to time to cater to the various categories of disabled people,” Anfaal said.
Through the 2024 Selangor Budget, the state government has allocated RM1 million for the Selangor Special Needs Children Initiative (ANIS) to help parents manage disabled children under 18 years old.
