PwD contributions recognised as cornerstone of Sarawak’s sustainable growth

KUCHING (Dec 11): Persons with disabilities (PwDs) are vital contributors to Sarawak’s social and economic development, and their full involvement is essential for sustainable progress, said State Deputy Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Development II (Community Wellbeing Development) Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam.

He said the government is committed to empowering the PwD community through inclusive education, equitable career opportunities, and social development, improved accessibility, entrepreneurship support, and collaboration with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as strategic partners.

“Under the Post Covid Development Strategy 2030 framework, Sarawak aims to achieve high-income developed state status by 2030.

“Real progress must benefit all segments of society without exclusion,” Razi said during the Sarawak PwD Day 2025 celebration at Imperial Hotel Kuching.

Razi described the annual event as more than a ceremonial event, noting that it reflects the state government’s commitment to building an inclusive society where every citizen, regardless of ability, can participate fully in all aspects of community life.

“In a state as diverse as Sarawak, the spirit of unity in diversity must continue to be nurtured, encompassing the full participation of all groups, including our friends from the PwD community,” he said.

Razi also highlighted the achievements of Sarawakian PwDs on the global stage, particularly in sports, where world records have been repeatedly broken.

He noted that this year’s theme, ‘Inclusive PwD Society, Key to Social Progress’, underscores the government’s view that the PwD involvement is foundational to sustainable development and societal progress.

“The success of building an inclusive society depends on collective effort.

“Celebrations such as PwD Day are vital in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and strengthening ties between PwDs, their families, and the wider community.

“We want society to recognise persons with disabilities as valuable contributors to Sarawak’s social, economic, and leadership development,” he said.

The PwD Day 2025 celebration honoured individuals and organisations that have made notable contributions to the PwD community.

Among the award recipients at the event were Francis Johen, a former Native Court Magistrate, who was honoured as a Special PwD Figure for demonstrating that disability is no barrier to success, and Yeoh Suh Chan, a hearing-impaired artist, awarded the newly introduced Abilympics Award for her achievements in painting, including a Silver Medal at the 2016 International Abilympics Championship.

Parents such as Adzohari Jamil, a visually impaired PwD who guided all three of his children to university graduation, and David Ngu Tai Giin, who advocates for early intervention for his autistic child.

Organisations were similarly recognised for promoting inclusivity such as Kuching South City Council (MBKS) received the inaugural Caring Local Authority Award for creating Ausome Park, Sarawak’s first autism-friendly outdoor playground while Ambang Wira Sdn Bhd was named Caring Employer for PwD for providing employment opportunities and supporting participation in the Paralympics.

Samarahan Community-Based Rehabilitation Centre was lauded for excellence as a Community-Based Rehabilitation Centre, while the Sarawak PwD Skills Development Association was recognised for preparing PwD participants for the 2027 International Abilympics.

SK Kebangsaan Matang Jaya (Secondary) and SK Kebangsaan Tabuan Ulu (Primary) were awarded for their outstanding Integrated Special Education Programmes.