Empowering PwDs by fostering talents

BINTULU: The Sarawak Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, emphasised that identifying the talents among people with disabilities (OKU) was a crucial element in ensuring their holistic development.

She highlighted that attention should be directed not only towards education but also individuals’ abilities in various fields, including sports, arts, and academics.

Fatimah stressed that recognising talents in areas such as athletics, field events, or other skills was vital for acknowledging the unique abilities possessed by children with disabilities.

She also commended the pivotal role of teachers and the organisation of sports championships in uncovering the hidden talents of individuals with disabilities.

 While speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Sarawak Special Education Championship, held at Bintulu Stadium on Thursday afternoon, she added, “Through these efforts, we have identified 616 talents in various fields. Some excel in field events, others are skilled in visual arts, and some have achieved academic excellence, even qualifying for university.”

Moreover, she stated that talent identification not only enabled individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential but also demonstrated that physical limitations were not insurmountable barriers to success.

“We aim to empower these children by providing ample space and opportunities. We want society to recognise their abilities, not just their disabilities,” she elaborated.

Fatimah also called upon the public to become more cognizant of the talents possessed by people with disabilities and to support the government’s initiatives to empower them.

“We aspire for the world to witness that with the right opportunities, these children can compete and exhibit extraordinary abilities, transcending all limitations,” she further emphasised.

She underlined that the government’s endeavours to ensure equal opportunities for people with disabilities would not only advance the individuals themselves but also contributed to the overall development of society.

During the event, Fatimah presented a Rural Transformation Project (MRP) grant of RM10,000 to the Bintulu District Education Services Sports and Cultural Association (PSKPP) for organising the 2024 Sarawak Special Education Championship.