For over four decades, the Sarawak Society for the Deaf has been a beacon of empowerment in Kuching and beyond. On this day, their story reminds us that communication is not about hearing — it is about understanding.
Sarawak Society for the Deaf brings communities together
In a world where words are often taken for granted, silence can become a barrier. Yet, for the Deaf community in Sarawak, silence is not emptiness — it is a language of its own.
Every September 23, the International Day of Sign Languages serves as a reminder that communication is a right, not a privilege.
For the Sarawak Society for the Deaf (SSD), the day symbolises more than awareness — it is about connection, dignity, and inclusion.
Founded in 1982 by the Lions Club of Kuching Host, SSD has stood as a beacon of compassion and empowerment for more than four decades.
From its beginnings in Kuching, it has grown into a dynamic non-governmental organisation, tirelessly working with and for the Deaf across Sarawak.
Guided by an unwavering passion for inclusivity, cultural richness, and economic empowerment, SSD envisions a future without barriers — where every Deaf individual can connect, thrive, and achieve their dreams.
Its vision is clear: to be the bridge that connects the Deaf and the hearing community through Deaf awareness activities, and to allow equal access and opportunities to all areas of life with trust, respect, integrity, and transparency.
To achieve this, SSD’s mission spans three core pillars: education, through early intervention and support to help Deaf children learn and grow with confidence; social support, by providing training, employment and welfare opportunities; and public awareness, by promoting sign language and greater understanding of Deaf culture and communication challenges.
Programmes that change lives
Over the years, SSD has introduced a wide range of programmes and services — from car washing and tailoring training schemes to job placement, tuition, and public awareness activities.
Among these, its Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) classes remain one of the most popular and impactful.
“We usually limit our BIM classes to 15 people. If there are more, we separate them into two classes,” Ernest Ting, general manager of SSD, told Sarawak Tribune.
The steady demand reflects a quiet but powerful shift: more members of the public are seeking to learn sign language and connect with the Deaf community.
Unlike many assumptions, Ting shares that learners do not come from one background.
“It’s all kinds of people — family members, those with work interests, and even people who just want to learn for personal reasons,” he added.
For many, the motivation is simple: a desire to understand, connect, and stand alongside the Deaf community.
What makes SSD’s classes truly unique is that they are taught entirely by Deaf trainers.
“This makes a big difference. Students often want to become volunteers or even interpreters for the Deaf community.
“Learning directly from Deaf trainers helps them understand more than just the language — it helps them feel the culture,” Ting explained.
An intern’s journey
Among those drawn to SSD is Jennifer Richard, a student at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) currently interning with the society.
“I actually found out about SSD through the internet,” she recalled.
“I wanted to learn sign language and get closer to the Deaf community, and I felt this was the best place for that,” added the second-year Cognitive Science student.
Jennifer joined SSD’s BIM Level 1 course, which runs once a week over 14 sessions.
“I chose the Monday class from 7.30 to 9.30 pm. The fee is RM150. It’s helped me so much during my internship because I’ve learnt the basic fundamentals and daily signs they use,” she said.
Her experience quickly became personal.
“For me, it was when I got to help with communication — interpreting or using basic signs with the members.
“I realised how big the communication gap is and how even a little effort makes a huge difference.
“Before learning sign language, I would rely on papers, pictures, or gestures. Now, I can communicate directly, and that changes everything,” she said proudly.
Challenges and support
SSD’s work extends to tuition for Deaf children in core subjects such as Mathematics, Bahasa Malaysia, English, and crafts. But the challenges are steep.
“Sometimes the children cannot focus because they cannot hear. Sometimes they forget what they learnt by the next day. We need to repeat and repeat many times,” Ting admitted.
Outside the classroom, SSD supports the Deaf community through initiatives like haircutting, tailoring, sewing, and car washing — programmes that provide both practical training and economic opportunities.
“We are always looking for sponsors and promoting these services to the public.
“Community support is important, whether through donations, corporate social responsibility, or simply using these services,” Ting said.
Jennifer has seen first-hand how even small acts of support matter.
“The Deaf community are just like everyone else; they just communicate differently.
“Even learning a few basic signs or being patient when you communicate makes a big difference. It’s really about respect and effort,” she emphasised.
Her time at SSD left a lasting impression, and she hopes to stay connected — whether through volunteering, joining future events, or continuing to learn sign language so she can communicate more confidently.
A celebration of voices
For Ting, the International Day of Sign Languages is more than symbolic.
“Every September, we celebrate International Day of Sign Languages just like we celebrate Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Gawai, or Christmas.
“It’s a special day for us — to show that sign language is not just for the Deaf, but for everyone who wants to build bridges,” he pointed out.
In the end, SSD’s story is one of resilience and hope: of a community refusing to be defined by silence, and of people — like Jennifer — who are choosing to listen with their hands.
Because communication is not only about hearing. It is about understanding. And sometimes, the most powerful voices are the ones signed, not spoken.
