THE challenges faced by people with hearing impairments in securing employment, education, and livelihood are undeniably real. The Social Welfare Department recently revealed that there are 46,127 people in Malaysia living with hearing impairments, underscoring the urgent need for society to understand and address the formidable obstacles these individuals encounter daily. In response to this critical issue, students from Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (HWUM) have taken proactive steps through the Empower programme.

As part of their student project, their primary goals were to raise awareness and generate financial support for the deaf community. I am pleased to share that the students raised RM18,244 for the Malaysia Federation of the Deaf (MFD) to support their various welfare programmes. This achievement not only highlights the dedication of these students but also serves as a beacon of hope for the deaf community, demonstrating that positive change is attainable when we unite to address these crucial issues.

In April, HWUM students embarked on an immersive experience, delving into the world of hearing impairment through a volunteer programme. They visited Taska Istika Jaya in Puchong, a preschool for deaf children under the MFD, with the goal of gaining a profound understanding of a deaf student’s learning environment. During their visit, they engaged in games, conducted activities, and interviewed 38 children using sign language. This experience of communicating in sign language proved to be eye-opening. The students also visited MFD in Bandar Puchong and interacted with hearing-impaired staff, enhancing their understanding of the challenges faced by the deaf community. Despite initial communication challenges, their exchanges were fruitful and free of any preconceived notions. This experience provided the students with an insight into the struggles and experiences of the hearing impaired.

In an effort to remove barriers and address the deficiency in accessible sign language, which has led to the isolation of the deaf community from fundamental aspects of life, including access to healthcare and securing essential food resources, HWUM students took action this year. They introduced online sign language courses, a pioneering initiative that uses sign language handbooks and reference materials to teach the Malaysian sign language. It is a visual-gestural language that utilises hand shapes, movements, facial expressions, and body postures to convey meaning. These two-week online courses not only equip participants with sign language skills but also break down communication barriers for people with hearing impairments. Upon successful completion of the course, participants received certificates.

Due to economic challenges, the MFD faced a decline in private donations, resulting in a funding shortfall for various programmes. In response, HWUM students organised a mid-year charity bazaar, raising RM18,244 for MFD. With this support, the organisation will be able to cover its operational costs, advance its initiatives in sign language advocacy, support early childhood education, and address other needs related to the deaf community.

People with hearing impairments deserve a society that places a high value on their inclusion, promotes effective communication, and treats them with the utmost kindness and respect. To contribute to this vision, we can advocate for sign language, work toward establishing more environments that are welcoming and accommodating to the deaf community, and practice patience and understanding in our interactions. Through our collective efforts, we can pave the way for a future where every person, regardless of their circumstances, has an equal opportunity to thrive. – November 8, 2023.

* Peter Lee J. reads The Malaysian Insight.