KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the 2027 School Curriculum (KP2027) is expected to open wider opportunities for mainstream students to learn Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) as an additional language, while strengthening inclusive practices and increasing awareness among school communities about persons with disabilities (PWD).
Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said the initiative complements the efforts of the Education Ministry since 2011 in providing the Communicative Sign Language (BIK) subject and Basic Education for Individuals with Visual Impairment (Paikup) in primary schools through the Primary School Standard Curriculum for Special Education (KSSRPK).
He said the implementation of these subjects through the Integrated Special Education Programme (PPKI) allows students with disabilities and mainstream students to learn together in a more inclusive environment, whether inside or outside the classroom.
Wong added that KP2027 not only provides opportunities for mainstream students in schools that have PPKI classes to learn BIM, but also helps foster an inclusive school culture that encourages social integration from an early stage, Bernama reported.
Separately, the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry will continue to expand initiatives to assist children with disabilities from poor families, including support in welfare and education until they reach adulthood.
Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the government’s efforts focuses on five main priorities, namely welfare assistance and financial support, inclusive and special education, rehabilitation and early intervention, skills training and employability, as well as policy and legal protection.
“We want to ensure that every child with disabilities from poor families is not left behind in terms of development and educational opportunities from childhood until adulthood,” she told the Upper House.
