Exco Seeks More Funding For PWD Skills Training, Lifelong Learning

IPOH, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- The allocation for the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Human Capital Empowerment and Lifelong Learning Programme is hoped to be increased under the 2027 state budget to strengthen the employability and economic independence of persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Perak Women, Family, Social Welfare, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Committee chairman Datuk Salbiah Mohamed said the increase was essential to ensure continued economic development and provide more targeted skills training for PWDs.

"Currently, a total of RM80,000 has been allocated by the state government for this programme to fund various initiatives aimed at empowering PWDs in the state to be competitive and capable of being independent in improving their economic status.

"We hope the allocation for this year can be increased so that more targeted skills training programmes can be implemented for this group," she told reporters after attending the Launching Ceremony of the Perak State PWD Awareness Month 2026 here today.

Earlier, the event was officiated by the wife of the Perak Menteri Besar, Datin Seri Aezer Zubin, and attended by more than 500 guests comprising PWDs, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as well as government departments and agencies.

Salbiah said the existing allocation under the programme had been channelled to eight NGOs and selected Special Education Integration Programmes (PPKI) in Perak to facilitate targeted vocational training modules.

"For example, at PPKI Tasik Damai, skills training such as culinary and barista courses are offered to provide practical skills so they are ready to venture into entrepreneurship or employment as soon as they finish school," she said.

She said the programme also aimed to raise public awareness about the importance of respecting the rights of PWDs, while fostering self-confidence among the group.

She added that the ongoing campaign was also aimed at creating a more inclusive, caring and PWD-friendly environment throughout Perak.

"This step is crucial, especially in changing the attitude of some members of society who still misuse the special facilities provided for this group, such as toilets, parking facilities and so on," she said.

-- BERNAMA