The OKU Rights Matter Project is a crucial initiative that aims to address the rights and challenges faced by the OKU community in Malaysia. The project is led by a group of individuals with disabilities, advocates, care partners, and allies who are deeply committed to advocating for the rights and inclusion of the OKU community.
The project was initiated in response to the recent remarks and stance taken by Senator Isaiah Jacob in a profile interview with Malaysiakini. The senator’s advocacy for the term „specially abled“ has been met with disappointment and concern by the OKU community, as it goes against the widely accepted and respectful term „orang kurang upaya“ that has been endorsed by the UN and is enshrined in Malaysia’s disability rights legislation.
The OKU community has long advocated for the use of inclusive and empowering language that respects their identity and challenges the stigma associated with disability. By rejecting the term „specially abled“ and advocating for the use of derogatory terms, the senator is undermining the efforts of the OKU community to promote dignity, equality, and inclusion.
The OKU Rights Matter Project calls on Senator Isaiah Jacob to engage meaningfully with the OKU community, listen to their voices, and work towards addressing the critical issues faced by the community. The project also urges the senator to focus on substantive actions and reforms that will empower and uplift the OKU community, rather than resorting to symbolic gestures or tokenism.
The project highlights the importance of having OKU leaders who stand with the community and advocate for their rights, rather than against their collective voice. It calls for a senator who is willing to understand the complexities of disability rights, engage with the community in a meaningful way, and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
In conclusion, the OKU Rights Matter Project is a vital initiative that seeks to amplify the voices and rights of the OKU community in Malaysia. It underscores the importance of respectful and inclusive language, meaningful engagement with the community, and substantive actions to address the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Senator Isaiah Jacob is urged to reconsider his stance and work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.