Page 27 - Mainstreamer e-Magazine Volume 5, April 2024

FAR AND BEYOND: A BLESSING IN DISGUISE
opportunities to publish my work.
While I have never aspired to a political career,
I believe that serving as a Senator could provide a
significant platform to advocate for the interests of
PWDs and those with kidney issues.
Rather than waiting for retirement to expand
my involvement, I have decided to start now,
especially in supporting the PWD community.
In 2021, I initiated a project to enhance the
visibility of PWDs by launching a magazine. We
are currently publishing the fourth issue of the
Mainstreamer e-Magazine, for which I am the
Editor-in-Chief. Additionally, I hold a position
on the executive board of Aun-DPPnet, which is
financially supported by The Nippon Foundation
of Japan, until December 2024. Through this role, I
am committed to making significant contributions
to the PWD community both locally and
internationally.
Recognising that employability is a major
concern for PWDs—a concern that I share—
I am considering the establishment of a private
employment agency for PWDs at the ASEAN level.
This initiative will address job security issues and
provide much-needed support for individuals with
disabilities, helping them to secure meaningful
employment and contribute to society.
Why is the Agency Crucial?
In recent years, working from home has
become increasingly popular, presenting an
opportunity that PWDs must leverage. While
many governments have implemented policies
mandating a 1% employment quota for PWDs, the
reality of achieving this goal remains challenging.
The reluctance of industries and public sectors to
employ PWDs often stems from their inability to
verify an applicant’s capability to perform specific
tasks.
The gap between the large number of job
seekers and the low demand for their employment
is significant. To prevent PWD employees from
becoming liabilities rather than assets, it is crucial
to mentally and professionally train potential
employees. Training centres can also serve as
recruitment hubs for employers looking for
qualified PWD candidates for both manual and
executive positions. Often, employers are willing to
hire PWDs, but lack the resources to find suitable
candidates.
Government grants should initially fund these
training centres, but the goal is for them to be
self-sustaining within ten years, operating like any
other employment agency. It is also vital that these
agencies are managed by PWDs themselves.
As for myself, I am committed to not letting my
knowledge and skills go to waste as long as I am
mentally capable. I plan to continue my academic
pursuits beyond the age of 60, following the
example of many who remain active well into their
80s. Currently, I am delving into serious research
on religion and philosophy, a reflection of the
introspective thinking that often accompanies
aging.
The digital world initially posed a significant
challenge for me, particularly as a blind individual.
However, with support from friends and family,
I have adapted and now use these tools to my
advantage. As I approach the age of 60, I hope to
be offered a contract to continue my service at my
current institution or find employment elsewhere
based on my abilities.
I owe a profound debt of gratitude to my
parents, whose prayers continue to resonate with
me long after their passing. I am also thankful
for the education and opportunities provided
by the blind school in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur,
and Universiti Malaya in Lembah Pantai, Kuala
Lumpur—the institutions that nurtured my
academic career and enabled me to become a
dedicated academician.
The author, as a scholar, enjoys reading and writing.
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