The 2027 School Curriculum will introduce Malaysian Sign Language for mainstream students, promoting inclusivity and awareness for persons with disabilities

KUALA LUMPUR: Mainstream students will have the opportunity to learn Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) as an additional language under the new 2027 School Curriculum (KP2027).

Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said this initiative aims to strengthen inclusive practices and increase awareness about persons with disabilities (PwDs) within school communities.

The move builds upon the Ministry of Education’s existing efforts, which since 2011 have included the Communicative Sign Language (BIK) subject in special education programmes.

Wong stated that participation from mainstream students can improve understanding and tolerance towards persons with disabilities.

He added that KP2027 will help foster an inclusive school culture that encourages social integration from an early stage.

This learning occurs through the Integrated Special Education Programme (PPKI), where students with and without disabilities learn together.

Separately, the government continues to expand initiatives to assist children with disabilities from poor families.

Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said efforts focus on five priorities: welfare, education, rehabilitation, skills training, and legal protection.

“We want to ensure that every child with disabilities from poor families is not left behind,” she said in the Dewan Negara.

Welfare assistance includes the Children’s Financial Aid (BKK) and Assistance for Disabled Persons Unable to Work (BTB).

The government also emphasises inclusive education through PPKI and grants to childcare centres for children with disabilities.

Early intervention is provided through the Community-Based Rehabilitation Programme (PDK), which offers a monthly allowance of RM300.

PwD cardholders enjoy various facilities including education access and medical fee exemptions.

For teenagers, vocational training at centres like PLPP Bangi helps them obtain certificates and practical skills.

A PwD Worker’s Allowance is provided as an incentive to encourage independent living.

“Through early intervention and an inclusive social safety net, we provide a bridge for children with disabilities to step into adulthood with greater confidence,” Nancy said.

All initiatives are guided by the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities and the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008.

 The Sun Malaysia