IPOH: The Perak state government has been urged to increase its funding for human capital development and lifelong learning programs tailored for persons with disabilities (OKU) in the upcoming 2027 State Budget.
Perak Women, Family, Social Welfare, Cooperatives, and Entrepreneur Development Committee chairman Datuk Salbiah Mohamed said the state had allocated RM80,000 for the program this year, benefiting eight non-governmental organisations (NGOs), associations, and Special Education Integrated Program (PPKI) groups.
“I hope the state government will give greater focus to this initiative when presenting the 2027 Perak Budget and consider boosting the allocation,” she told reporters after attending the state-level Disabled Persons Awareness Month celebration on Thursday (Oct 8).
“While my immediate focus is on the state budget, we also hope the 2027 Federal Budget will address the broader needs of the disabled community,” she added.
Salbiah explained that the program—managed under her portfolio—aims to equip the disabled community with practical skills and vocational training to enhance their economic independence.
Participants receive hands-on training in skills such as culinary arts, baking, and barista operations to help them secure jobs or venture into entrepreneurship after finishing school.
“Acquiring these skills boosts employers' confidence in hiring them. It also gives them the tools to become self-reliant entrepreneurs, such as opening their own cafes,” she said.
Additionally, Salbiah noted that the initiative supports the government’s policy to ensure at least 1%t of public sector positions are filled by persons with disabilities.
