By Sun Yi Han
GOMBAK, 30 May 2021: Compassion and strong moral guidelines are indispensable for every democratic society that we must ensure that we have strong institutions and justice standards to ensure a better functioning of society.
Dr. Ishtiaq Hossain told this in a webinar recently when discussing the Sustainable Development Goal 16 and disability inclusion. He gave a detailed introduction to the current legal system in Malaysia and the situation faced by persons with disabilities.
In the session, Dr. Ishtiaq emphasised the importance of linking peace, justice and disability with sustainable development. He said that everyone’s commitment is very important.
“A society is made up of all kinds of people. If the community excludes a portion of the population, it will not be able to achieve its goals,” he highlighted.
When talking about the rule of law in Malaysia, Dr. Ishtiaq pointed out: “Although Malaysia has relevant laws such as the 1984 Disability Convention, the general problem facing the country is that there are strong laws but they have not been implemented.” He alluded to the fact that there is still work to be done and implemented.
“But it is worth mentioning that in Malaysia, all agencies are improving services for the disabled, including office facilities and public transportation. The younger generation of this country is adopting a value system that is definitely worth seeing.”
He further pointed out that a major obstacle facing SDG 16 goals is all the negative influences and negative thoughts produced by culture. He added that how to overcome this obstacle actually depends on long-term education.
As a lecturer of IIUM, he believes that IIUM plays a very important role in helping the disabled.
He said it is not only the convenience of facilities, but also the education of students’ thoughts.
From the perspective of Islam, Dr. Ishtiaq Hussein stated that Islam respects everyone, protects the disabled in all aspects, and teaches people to respect the disadvantaged groups in society.
Finally, Dr. Ishtiaq Hossain stated that in different government agencies, everyone should be able to use all facilities equally.
He hoped that students can learn as much as possible to tolerate the disabled, have empathy, and start from themselves.
The webinar was organised by IIUM students Aisha Humaira and Salinah Zazali from the Professional Speech Communication course (COMM 3090).***