United Voice, which champions the rights of people with learning disabilities, marked its 20th anniversary in 2025.
United Voice, which celebrated its 20th anniversary last year, continues to champion the rights and inclusion of people with learning disabilities so that they can participate equally and effectively in society.
“Learning disabilities, which represent the largest group among persons with disabilities, does not mean an inability to learn.
“Instead, these individuals learn differently and have different capabilities,” said the non-governmental organisation’s vice-president James Kong Yau Kin.
“In Malaysia, there are 751,421 registered persons with disabilities and the actual number is likely much higher owing to low awareness, social stigma and other factors, according to a media report,” he said in a media statement.
“This tells us that there are many persons with disabilities in our midst, but we don’t see them participating in society because they are hidden away, with few opportunities.
“However, we must remember that each one of them is a gift and part of our society too.
“They have the right to education, social acceptance, employment and independence so they can lead fulfilling lives, without barriers,” said Kong.
In line with this mission and the government’s efforts to promote equal opportunities, United Voice works to change hearts and minds, encouraging society to include people with diverse needs and abilities.
Its activities are centred around four pillars – engagement, empowerment, education and employment.
Collectively, these efforts are part of Project I’m Possible – that serves as the NGO’s training platform and social enterprise arm.
The project aims to create sustainable employment pathways while fostering independence among its members by providing opportunities for them to work, learn and earn based on their individual capabilities.
Its key initiatives include an on-site cafe and pop-up coffee cart for members to learn how to interact with customers, take orders and develop barista skills.
It also included capacity building, self-advocacy, vocational, self-employment and job-readiness training to help members communicate their needs and gain independence.
There are also workshops and training for organisations and corporate partners, including disability equality training, disability awareness training and disability related services training, and audit access to help participants understand people with learning disabilities and strategies to support their inclusion.
Many individuals have benefitted from these programmes over the years, such as Lee May Yoong who said that the project had made a huge difference in her life.
“After a brain tumour affected my memory and learning, United Voice gave me so many opportunities to learn and grow,” she said.
Through the NGO, Lee gained experience of working as office administrator and treasurer, and conducting awareness training workshops as well as learning how to speak to others about her rights and asking for support when needed.
Another beneficiary, Cynthia Thomas said she developed confidence and skills that enabled her to work as a receptionist at a clinic, registering patients and assisting with various tasks.
Similarly, Siti Farhah Azyan said she felt accepted and found purpose in her work, supporting others and participating in the Special Olympics where she represented Malaysia in 2015, winning several medals for bowling.
For Clement Ooi Kit Meng, autism made it challenging to speak but he expresses himself beautifully in bold artwork and a distinctive style that has gained a following locally and abroad.
“Over the past 20 years, we have touched many individuals – not just our members, but also their families,” said Kong.
“We have helped raise awareness among individuals and companies.
“Still, there is much more to be done.
“As the saying goes, many hands make light work.
“We welcome enquiries about our programmes and support from both the public and corporations,” he added.
Visit www.unitedvoice.com.my to explore unique artwork and craft items, drop by the café and bakery, sign up for a workshop or simply help spread the word.
