STATEMENT BY
MR. AZRIL ABD AZIZ
DEPUTY PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS
AT THE 14TH SESSION OF THE CONFERENCE OF STATE PARTIES TO THE CONVENTION ON
THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
NEW YORK, 15 – 17 JUNE 2021
Mr. Chair,
The COVID-19 pandemic emphasises that an integrated approach is required to ensure that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are not left behind in the response and recovery efforts of this global crisis.
2. In our national efforts, Malaysia’s National Economic Recovery Plan (NERP) includes PWDs in its pandemic response. The measures in the Plan include a one-off financial assistance, a return to work programme, granting assistance for registered NGOs working with PWDs, and providing one-off financial assistance for volunteers of Home Help Services that assist PWDs in shelter homes.
3. To further encourage PWDs to be economically independent through self-employment, the Government of Malaysia introduced a Business Encouragement Assistance Scheme to assist PWD entrepreneurs to enhance their businesses and employ other PWDs in their businesses.
4. The Government of Malaysia also incorporates universal design concepts in its policies, legislation, standards and guidelines towards creating disabled-friendly environment by increasing mobility and access for PWDs.
5. In relation to the rights of PWDs to education, the Government of Malaysia is targeting 75% enrolment in inclusive programmes by year 2025, to ensure that every child could enjoy positive learning in a conducive environment.
6. The Government of Malaysia appreciates the efforts made by civil society organisations (CSOs) in advocating the rights of PWDs. In this regard, the Government of Malaysia will avail funding to CSOs to encourage and improve the deliverability of services to PWDs through smart partnerships with government agencies by providing skills training, care services and rehabilitation.
7. In line with the Incheon Strategy and CRPD, Malaysia continues to implement and promote advocacy and awareness-raising programmes to the public and service providers on the rights of PWDs, and constantly reviews existing policies and programmes on PWDs to ensure that they remain relevant, and that no PWDs are left behind.
Thank you.
