SERIAN: Communities at all levels are called upon to support persons with disabilities (PwDs) through greater awareness, empathy and shared responsibility.
Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, commended the Sarawak Welfare Department (JKM) and Serian Division Welfare Office for successfully organising the PwD Day celebration, saying it was not just a ceremony, but a reminder of collective responsibility.
“Today’s programme shows that we all have a role – government agencies, community leaders, NGOs and families, in ensuring that our PwD brothers and sisters are not left behind,” he said.
He said this during the JKM Serian-level OKU Day 2025 celebration at Kampung Stabut Teng Bukap Waterfront here today.
Sagah added that the main objective of the programme was to promote understanding, awareness and respect for the disabled community while recognising their talents and contributions.
“This is about acknowledging their abilities, not just their limitations. PwD are part of our community, and they deserve equal opportunities to learn, work and live with dignity,” he said.
He further stressed that reducing discrimination and stigma requires continuous effort, especially at the grassroots level, with Community-Based Rehabilitation (PDK) centres and volunteer groups serving as important partners in providing training, therapy and support services to PwD and their families.
“Through PDKs and welfare organisations, we can help PwD gain confidence, skills and independence.
“What we need is more empathy, more understanding and more willingness to include them in community activities,” he said.
Sagah also highlighted the Sarawak government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening support systems for PwD, including access to education, skills programmes and employment opportunities.
He noted that various state and federal-level initiatives and campaigns have been introduced to encourage PwD registration, improve service delivery and expand support networks.
“The government is committed, but support for PwD cannot depend on the government alone. We need communities, employers and families to join hands so that PwD can participate fully in social and economic life,” he said.
Sagah also shared that he has personally supported PwD-related programmes in his constituency in Tarat, including community carnivals and awareness events aimed at promoting inclusion and reducing dropout issues among vulnerable groups.
He reminded the audience that empathy and compassion must be consistently practised, not only during special events.
“Integrity, kindness and responsibility must be part of our daily behaviour. How we treat those who are vulnerable says a lot about who we are as a society,” he said.
Sagah ended his address with a call for unity and continued support for the disabled community.
“Let us continue to stand together; government, community leaders, parents and the public, to build a Serian, and a Sarawak, where PwD feel valued, respected and included,” he said.
