Don't dismiss the disabled

THE MALAY MAIL

Friday, July 1st, 2011 11:07:00

I WELCOME Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's recent statement that the private sector must ensure women make up at least 30 per cent of those in decision-making positions within five years.

I believe women with an excellent track record should be given the opportunity to fill high-ranking positions in Government Linked Companies (GLCs).

Although I was happy to hear about it, I wondered what has happened to a similar vision of the government to allocate one per cent of jobs in the public sector for disabled individuals.

The announcement was made years ago and has remained a mere announcement. I have yet to see any campaigns or follow-up plans to achieve this mission.

The minister in charge of advocating the 30 per cent allocation for women in GLCs is also responsible for the one per cent job allocation for the disabled.

The minister should take proactive steps to ensure the ministry comes out with a time frame and plans to enable this to come to fruition.

If given a chance, I believe the disabled community can be a driving force in increasing the productivity of the nation.

V. Murugeswaran
President
Damai Disabled Persons Association (Selangor and Federal Territory)