PUTRAJAYA, March 8- Prime Minister’s wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor(Pic) today said persons with disabilities (OKU) were actually looking forward to have the opportunity to work, to be independent and to contribute to the country’s development.
Rosmah, who is also Association of Wives of Ministers and Deputy Ministers (BAKTI) president said this was because the OKU perceived employment not just as human right, but also as something closely related to their self-esteem.
“One thing for sure, I have found out the OKU, if possible, do not want to depend on aid and sympathy, let alone to become a burden to others for as long as they shall live,” she said when opening the Community Rehabilitation Centre
(PDK) Products Carnival here today.
Present were Deputy Prime Minister’s wife Puan Sri Noorainee Abdul Rahman who is also Bakti deputy president, former Prime Minister’s wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali who is also Bakti honorary member and Putrajaya Corporation
president Tan Sri Aseh Che Mat. Rosmah said 50 booths were available at the carnival, which is organised by Bakti through its Semai Bakti programme, showcasing products and handicrafts produced by the OKU.
Rosmah also called on small and medium-scale industry (SMI) entrepreneurs to attend the two-day carnival to establish a network with the OKU and give added value to the products so that they could be commercialised.
“I think this is where government agencies, such as Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry, Malaysian Handicraft, as well as Women, Family and Community Development Ministry can do something to help, guide and promote these products in the market, just like they did for the SMI products.
“I have high hope to see the OKU products on the shelves in major hypermarkets in the country, and hence, prove that the OKU can contribute to the country’s economic growth,” she said.
Rosmah also called on private sector and individuals to give their supports, in term of expertise, education and financial aid to the OKU. Meanwhile, she said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is also the patron of Bakti, was scheduled to launch the Prime Minister’s Cup Semai Bakti Special Talent competition, in Dataran Putrajaya tomorrow.
The singing and dancing competition among children of OKU will also be aired live on RTM1, she added.
BERNAMA
