WAN Nor Baizura – also known as ‘Kak Long’ – who mocked people with disabilities (PwD) in a video posted on social media, should make a public apology and be made to do charitable work to serve as a lesson, said Senator Ras Adiba Radzi said.

In a statement today, Ras Adiba, who represents the community in the Senate, said that it was uncalled for to mimic a disabled person to create content for social media.

“I hope that all parties can maintain sensitivity and respect for PwD. This is not the first time such an incident has happened, in fact, lately, there have been several incidences (of making fun of the disabled) occurring.

“The weak enforcement of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 has caused many out there to continue to ridicule and discriminate against the disabled community,” she said.

Wan Nor was accused of insulting and belittling the PwD community when she posted a video mimicking the disabled on social media recently.

Meanwhile, Ras Adiba said the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development act amendments by emphasising the protection and safety of the group through law enforcement.

She also called on all disabled associations and organisations to lodge a police report against Wan Nor because, Ras Adiba said, the act of physically insulting a person verbally or online is classified as a crime under section 233 (1) (b) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

“I request the government amends the act and section 509 of the penal code by inserting heavier punishments to prevent actions that humiliate people, especially the disabled, from occurring.

“We need to make sure that (insulting the disabled) is not something that people should make fun of. We have feelings, we have needs and dignity so this must be stopped,” she said.

Reportedly, civil society groups have filed police reports about the video. – Bernama, March 17, 2022.