Employers urged to use job coaches to support workers with disabilities, says deputy minister

BUKIT MERTAJAM, Oct 11 — Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying has called on employers to utilize Job Coach services to aid workers with disabilities in adapting to their roles and workspaces, thereby increasing inclusive employment prospects. Lim emphasized that these services would also assist employers in grasping the requirements of PwD workers and employing suitable communication methods to ensure their effectiveness.

She expressed her belief that, with proper guidance and mutual understanding, more individuals with disabilities could excel in their jobs and make valuable contributions. Lim urged employers to offer training opportunities, identify talents, and foster a fair and secure work atmosphere. She addressed parents' concerns about their children's futures post-education, stressing the importance of tackling issues related to access to skills training and employer readiness to hire and guide individuals with disabilities.

Lim highlighted that communication, learning, or social interaction differences, especially among neurodivergent youths with autism, ADHD, or learning difficulties, should not hinder employment opportunities. Instead, she advocated for creating a safe work environment that caters to individual needs, allowing these individuals to harness their capabilities and potential.

Lim stressed the necessity of comprehensive collaboration among ministries, government agencies, training institutions, and the private sector to ensure persons with disabilities have access to education, skills training, and employment opportunities. She also encouraged more companies to contribute through corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs and initiatives to hire PwD workers.

The RM1.5 billion budget for PwD in Budget 2027 will benefit over 300,000 recipients, with measures including an increased monthly allowance for bedridden and chronically ill PwD and higher thresholds for the Disabled Workers' Allowance. Free public transport passes for the PwD community and specialized skills training for 3,000 new PwD caregivers are also part of the government's initiatives.

Additionally, 15 Community-Based Rehabilitation (PDK) premises will be transformed into specialized therapy centers.