KUCHING: Art is more than just a form of expression; it serves as a unifying force in society, especially when individuals with disabilities are given the opportunity and platform to shine.
This was the message delivered by the Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Wellbeing Community Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, during the official launch of the poetry anthology ‘Tongkat Putih’ at Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka Sarawak on Thursday.
The event, held in collaboration with the Sarawak Society for the Blind (SSB), Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, and the Sarawak Department of Social Welfare, carried the theme ‘Art Without Borders’, showcasing the remarkable creative talents of the visually impaired community in using art and literature to express their voices.
“Inclusivity today is not just a slogan. Initiatives like this demonstrate that art can uplift voices often marginalised in the mainstream and we must celebrate this spirit,” she said.
Fatimah expressed her gratitude to SSB for their continuous efforts in empowering the visually impaired, and commended their creative partnership with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, which made the publication of the anthology a reality.
She said that the anthology ‘Tongkat Putih’ is the outcome of the unwavering dedication of visually impaired writers who persevered, even after their original manuscript submitted in 2021 underwent several reviews and was initially rejected by the publisher.
Their determination remained strong, further supported by training and workshops with seasoned writers such as SEA Writer Award recipient, Zain Kasturi.
“Given the right opportunities and guidance, talent can truly shine. If visually impaired writers can produce high-quality literary works, then surely others can also rise and give it a try,” she added.
She also welcomed Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka’s proposal to organise an Inclusive Arts Festival featuring a wide range of persons with disabilities (PWDs) across Sarawak.
She said the initiative was a meaningful step towards genuine inclusivity, calling on relevant agencies and the public to lend their full support.
“Sarawak must be a state that truly values all forms of talent regardless of physical or social background. Art knows no boundaries, and we must continue opening spaces where these artistic voices can be heard,” she said.
