Reduce inequality within and among countries
SDG 10 Indicator
10.6 – Measures against discrimination
10.6.8 – Disability support services
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) provides support services for people with disabilities. The Disabled Services and Support Unit (UPS-OKU), established on 12th December 2019 under the Registrar’s Office and supervised by the Vice-Chancellor, aims to support disabled staff and students based on their specific needs, empowering them to succeed in their careers and studies at UKM. Currently, the unit has 99 students and 51 staff registered, all of whom are acknowledged by the Department of Social Welfare Malaysia (JKM).
UKM provides sign language interpreters for events involving deaf and mute individuals, ensuring accessibility. The Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) also offers practical assistance, with volunteers supporting disabled individuals on campus and at events. Additionally, UKM provides scholarship assistance; in 2024, 14 students with disabilities received distinguished scholarships. This comprehensive support reflects UKM’s commitment to inclusivity and reducing inequalities.
Summary of the support services for people with disabilities
| No | Initiatives |
|---|---|
| 1 | Disability Support And Services Unit (UPS-OKU) |
| 2 | Guidelines And Compliance |
| 3 | Services And Support i. Sign Language Interpreter ii. Accessibility Menu on UKM Official Website iii. Library services for persons with disabilitiesiv. Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) |
| 4 | Scholarship Assistance |
1. Disability Support And Services Unit (UPS-OKU)
The Disability Support and Services Unit (UPS-OKU) was officially established on 12th December 2019 under the oversight of the Registrar’s Office, with full supervision by the Vice-Chancellor. The unit, located at Chancellery Building, Level 1, UKM was founded to ensure that students and staff with disabilities receive the assistance they need to succeed in both their academic and career paths at UKM.
In 2024, all staff and students with disabilities, as recognized by the Department of Social Welfare Malaysia (JKM), were registered under UPS-OKU. This includes individuals with visual, hearing, physical, learning, and mental disabilities. Beyond providing services, this unit serves as a vital support system, empowering individuals to overcome challenges and fully engage in university life. In 2024, there were 99 students and 51 staff members with disabilities registered under UPS-OKU.
Core Functions of UPS-OKU:
- Data Management: UPS-OKU collects and manages comprehensive information on all staff and students with disabilities, ensuring that their needs are met.
- Reference for Academic and Infrastructure Support: The unit serves as a central reference point for staff, students, and visitors, ensuring that academic accommodations and infrastructural support are available as required. This includes collaborating with faculties to ensure accessible course materials and exam provisions.
- Collaboration with External Entities: UPS-OKU builds strong relationships with government agencies, industry bodies, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), creating pathways for additional resources and advocacy for the disabled community.
- Awareness and Empowerment Programs: The unit regularly organises awareness campaigns and training programs within the UKM community to foster a culture of inclusivity, where all members understand and support the rights of people with disabilities.
- Handling Complaints: UPS-OKU processes and resolves any complaints related to disability issues, ensuring that individuals’ concerns are heard and addressed promptly.
2. Guidelines And Compliance
The operations of UPS-OKU adhere to the Guidelines for the Implementation of Disability Inclusive Policy in Higher Education Institutions, issued by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). These guidelines are aligned with UKM’s Strategic Planning (TERAS) 2021-2025 and emphasise three key areas: ensuring accessible learning and working environments, promoting awareness and inclusive policies, and developing an inclusive, empowered university community.
Furthermore, UPS-OKU’s initiatives comply with the Strategic Planning for Disability Inclusive Policy, reinforcing UKM’s commitment to being a leader in creating an accessible and supportive environment for people with disabilities.
The pdf below shows Disability Inclusive Policy in Higher Education Institutions, issued by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE):
3. Services And Support
As part of its disability support framework, UKM offers a range of services, including:
i. Sign Language Interpreter
As part of its commitment to reducing inequalities and promoting accessibility, UKM has made significant efforts to support disabled students and staff in their academic and professional journeys. The university provides sign language interpreters for individuals who are mute or deaf, including visible representation in UKM’s official song, Varsiti Kita. Furthermore, during every convocation session, a sign language interpreter is present, ensuring that all attendees, especially those who are deaf or hard of hearing, can fully participate in and celebrate their achievements. Additionally, in any event or occasion where disabled staff or students are present, a sign language interpreter is provided. This inclusive approach demonstrates UKM’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for all members of its community.
ii. Accessibility Menu on UKM Official Website
UKM has enhanced its official website (www.ukm.my/portalukm) by upgrading the accessibility menu, making it more inclusive and user-friendly. The new accessibility features include options for dyslexia-friendly text, text spacing adjustments, contrast settings, cursor customisation, and the ability to pause animations. These improvements make it easier for people with various needs to navigate the website comfortably. The accessibility menu demonstrates UKM’s commitment to digital inclusivity, ensuring that all users, including those with disabilities, can access online information with ease.
iii. Library services for persons with disabilities
UKM also provides access to the library, Tun Seri Lanang Library (PTSL) for disabled people such as:
- Disabled toilets on level 4 for convenience and freedom of mobility.
- The disabled prayer room on level 3 ensures comfort during worship.
- The Carrel Room is specially designed to meet the needs of our customers.
- The disabled room is equipped with equipment that facilitates movement.
- Discussion rooms, quiet spaces, and more to connect and exchange knowledge.
More information about the services provided can be found at link:
The Tun Seri Lanang Library (PTSL) UKM offers dedicated library services for persons with disabilities (OKU) to ensure equitable access to academic resources as shown in Figure 1.19.16, . These services include assistance in book searches, led by Cik Noor Farhana Mohd Saleh from the Customer Service Unit, and article search support provided by En. Mohd Syamrooz Kamil Mhd Redza from the Education Services Unit. Additionally, the library offers customized information packages through Cik Mariati Embong and Pn. Mariatul Qibtiah Isa from the Research Support Unit. To further support OKU students, a reader volunteer program is coordinated by Pn. Nik Salimah Nik Abdullah and Pn. Amirah Hafzan Ismail, who acts as Disability Liaison Officers. These volunteers assist visually impaired users by reading materials aloud or providing verbal explanations. This range of services reflects UKM’s strong commitment to inclusivity and its efforts to create an accessible, supportive academic environment for all students.
Disability equipment is provided at the Tun Seri Lanang Library (PTSL), UKM Bangi, as part of the university’s commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all students, including those with disabilities. These facilities are designed to support individuals with various physical, visual, or mobility challenges. Among the available equipment are wheelchair-accessible ramps, elevators, adjustable-height desks, and special seating areas to ensure comfortable use of library spaces. For students with visual impairments, the library also offers magnifiers, screen reader software, and Braille resources, enabling them to access academic materials independently.
iv. Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT)
UKM’s Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) plays a vital role in promoting awareness and understanding of the needs of staff and students with disabilities. This volunteer-based club not only raises awareness but also provides practical support to disabled individuals within the university community. Members of the club act as “buddies” to disabled staff and students, offering assistance such as helping them move between offices or classrooms, providing guidance around campus, and supporting them during events.
The Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) also organises activities for disabled staff and students, providing them with opportunities for engagement, social interaction, and community building within UKM. These activities aim to foster a supportive and inclusive environment, further enhancing the well-being and campus experience of disabled individuals.
Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) embodies UKM’s commitment to inclusivity and creates a more supportive environment where disabled individuals feel valued and empowered.
Dr. Al Amril’s office in FSSK.
4. Scholarship Assistance
Under The Disability Support and Services Unit (UPS-OKU), UKM provides support to students with disabilities in obtaining prestigious scholarships. In 2024, 14 students with disabilities received scholarships from prominent sources, including the Sime Darby Foundation, MyBrainsc, and others.
Number of Students with Disabilities Receiving Scholarships in Year 2024 by Education Level
| Education Level | Number of Students |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 5 |
| Master’s Degree | 1 |
| Doctor of Philosophy | 8 |