As we mark Children’s Day and Hari OKU Persekutuan, I extend my deepest appreciation to the dedicated educators, committed parents, and most importantly, the remarkable students of Sekolah Khas PERKATA. Celebrating both occasions here carries profound significance, for this school stands as a testament to what humanity, inclusivity and collective responsibility can achieve.
Across Malaysia, there are countless individuals with different abilities whose lives remind us that potential flourishes when given the space and support it deserves. Allow me to share three true stories that illustrate this truth.
One is a young autistic boy in Kuala Lumpur who is non-verbal. When spoken language could not express his thoughts, he turned to art. His intricate drawings became his voice, eventually earning national attention and being featured in prominent exhibitions and festive publications.
Another is of a young man with Down syndrome from Perak who helped manage a small family café. Over time, he became more than a worker. He became a co-owner. With confidence and joy, he took orders, served customers and handled the cashier. His community saw for themselves that disability is not a barrier to entrepreneurship or dignity.
The third story is of a boy with cerebral palsy who grew up unable to speak. Through perseverance and the right support, he discovered adaptive sports and embraced wheelchair racing. What began as rehabilitation evolved into sporting excellence. He went on to win medals for Malaysia and became an advocate for young athletes like himself.
Each of these individuals reminds us that talent exists everywhere. The real test is whether society is willing to nurture it.
To the students of PERKATA, you embody that same promise. Your courage and determination inspire all of us. To the teachers and staff, your dedication gives shape to futures that might otherwise be overlooked. To the parents and guardians, your love and resilience form the backbone of every success story.
Supporting PERKATA is not an act of charity. It is an investment in the future of young Malaysians who can become artists, entrepreneurs, athletes and community leaders. Every contribution provides tools, therapies and opportunities that transform doubts into confidence and possibility into achievement.
A society is ultimately judged by how it treats its most vulnerable members. We fall short only when we choose indifference. We rise when we stand together.
As the Member of Parliament for Bandar Kuching, I reaffirm my commitment to PERKATA and its mission. My office has contributed RM35,000 to its programmes to date, including the Sentuhan Kasih initiative. Today, I am pleased to announce an additional RM10,000 from my upcoming allocation to support the continued growth and empowerment of the students at Sekolah Khas PERKATA.
I call upon corporate leaders, community organisations and all members of the public to join this effort. Contribute where you can. Volunteer your time. Advocate for a more inclusive Sarawak. Promote workplaces and public spaces that welcome persons with different abilities. Together, we can create an environment where every child is recognised, valued and given the chance to thrive.