Concerns over lack of interest in OKU rights
KUALA LUMPUR, May 27: The Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) has criticised the government for not helping disabled people (OKUs) causing many of them failing to achieve in life.
OKUs need opportunities, not merely sympathy
Its commissioner Dr Mahmood Zuhdi Abd Majid said the acceptance level towards OKUs was still low, and the group was treated as merely deserving sympathy.
The body said many OKUs were still facing difficulties in finding decent jobs due to being denied a chance by businesses and corporate sector, although they possess many abilities.
“These OKUs are not supposed to be treated this way, instead they should be given roles like normal people. Every human being on earth has a role to play,” he told a press conference.
Mahmood admitted that it would be a mounting task to change perception towards OKUs, and needed radical efforts to give proper explanation to various quarters.
Earlier, during a round-table discussion on the topic, Malaysia Disabled Association Mah Hassan lamented the BN-led government’s weaknesses to address OKU grouses.
“How can the OKU group improve their achievement when the government did not appoint any senator from OKU?” he asked.
Another Suhakam commissioner Khaw Lake Tee meanwhile said the issue regarding OKU rights in the country had always been brought up and debated.
As the smallest and most vulnerable group, he said, the OKU’s rights must be defended and protected.
