Banner image with the following text: "OKU Rights Matter, Make the Right Real in Malaysia"

Author: OKU Rights Matter Project

The image shows the “Make the Right Real in Malaysia” logo of The OKU Rights Matter website and a Deaf mother teaching Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) (Malaysian Sign Language) to her hearing children who are now skilful multilingual communicators.

A Reminder of the Toothless Tiger — Persons with Disabilities Act, 2008: how can DBKL and other local authorities make a difference?

The Persons with Disabilities Act, 2008, while asserting rights to accessibility, significantly lacks enforceability and effective legal remedies. Local authorities like DBKL can enhance compliance and accountability by combining the Act with international standards, documenting failures, advocating for amendments, and using lived experiences to encourage reform, especially as Malaysia ages.
Continue reading…
The image shows the “Make the Right Real in Malaysia” logo of The OKU Rights Matter website and a Deaf mother teaching Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) (Malaysian Sign Language) to her hearing children who are now skilful multilingual communicators.

Teaching Hands Speaking: Two Tasks, One Love

The article discusses the importance of Deaf teachers in promoting Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) and the need for a deeper understanding of its linguistic aspects. It highlights the growth of BIM content on social media, while cautioning about potential misinterpretations of different signing systems. The author emphasizes structured learning from qualified sources as vital for effective communication with the Deaf community.
Continue reading…
The image shows the “Make the Right Real in Malaysia” logo of The OKU Rights Matter website and a protest by a group of disabled people holding placards for disability rights for people in Malaysia

What Parkinson’s Feels Like

The collection “What Parkinson’s Feels Like,” featuring illustrations by Barbara Salsberg Mathews, captures global experiences of individuals with Parkinson’s disease. It emphasizes the disability’s profound impact on identity and autonomy, advocating for recognition beyond physical symptoms. The work promotes empathy, structural change, and highlights the importance of listening to lived experiences in addressing disability rights.
Continue reading…
The image shows the “Make the Right Real in Malaysia” logo of The OKU Rights Matter website and a protest by a group of disabled people holding placards for disability rights for people in Malaysia

Elijah Irwin: From Darkness to Digital Voice

Elijah Irwin, who lost his sight at 34, transformed his writing journey from personal documentation to advocacy for the Blind community. Through accessible technology and his website, CoolHappenings®, he shares knowledge and empowers others. Writing became his voice, enabling connection and teaching, marking a significant shift in his identity.
Continue reading…
The image shows the “Make the Right Real in Malaysia” logo of The OKU Rights Matter website and a protest by a group of disabled people holding placards for disability rights for people in Malaysia

Alexandra Elaine – UK’s first Deafblind Doctor

Dr. Soania Mathur reflects on her struggles with sleep disruption caused by Parkinson’s disease, detailing the physical challenges she faces at night. Despite her overwhelming fatigue, she navigates her environment, mindful of her husband’s sleep. Acknowledging the disease’s impact on loved ones, she finds solace in the dawn, reminding herself of gratitude amid adversity.
Continue reading…
The image shows the “Make the Right Real in Malaysia” logo of The OKU Rights Matter website and a protest by a group of disabled people holding placards for disability rights for people in Malaysia

Dr Soania Mathur: Sleepless in Toronto…

Dr. Soania Mathur reflects on her struggles with sleep disruption caused by Parkinson’s disease, detailing the physical challenges she faces at night. Despite her overwhelming fatigue, she navigates her environment, mindful of her husband’s sleep. Acknowledging the disease’s impact on loved ones, she finds solace in the dawn, reminding herself of gratitude amid adversity.
Continue reading…
The image shows the “Make the Right Real in Malaysia” logo of The OKU Rights Matter website and an older woman in an orange shirt sitting in a garden of green foliage.

Behind Every PwD is a Parent Who Never Gives Up

Parenting children with disabilities in Malaysia involves profound emotional challenges and societal pressures. Parents often cycle through feelings of guilt and acceptance while seeking support and redefining success for their children. Community and advocacy are essential for creating change, fostering understanding, and ensuring visibility for both parents and their children within society.
Continue reading…
The image shows the “Make the Right Real in Malaysia” logo of The OKU Rights Matter website and a Deaf mother teaching Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) (Malaysian Sign Language) to her hearing children who are now skilful multilingual communicators.

Beyond Free Education: Why Disability Inclusion Needs a Stronger PwD Act

The coalition SUARA16% advocates for amending Malaysia’s Persons with Disabilities Act, citing that free education alone does not ensure access to higher education for disabled individuals. Despite acknowledging barriers in school systems, current education plans lack concrete reforms. The act requires strengthening to enforce rights and enhance inclusion of persons with disabilities in education.
Continue reading…