Action plan for persons with disabilities launched

PUTRAJAYA: The Action Plan for Persons with Disabilities (2016-2022) was launched today to provide continuity to the existing plan to ensure that the programme keeps up with the development and current needs of the group.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim said in the process of drafting the plan, several workshops and consultation sessions were held involving members of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the ministry and relevant government agencies.
"The implementation of the strategies in the action plan involves the cooperation and commitment of various government agencies, the private sector and the NGOs representing the interests of the disabled," she said at the launch of the action plan, here, today.
In her speech, Rohani also touched on the importance of registration for the physically challenged to assist the government in drawing up rehabilitation, training and education programmes, and in providing services and facilities suitable for them.
Based on the Information Management System for the Disabled (Smoku), until June 2016, 388,566 physically challenged people had registered with the Social Welfare Department, she said.
"I wish to appeal to all levels of society, including NGOs representing the interests of the disabled, no matter where, to ensure that those who have physically challenged children register as soon as possible to enable them to enjoy the facilities provided," she said. — Bernama