Accessibility: sharing and caring for all

• Main Authors: Tukiman, Izawati, Abu Bakar, Aniza
• Other Authors: Zen, Ismawi
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: The International Institute of Islamic Thought 2019
• Subjects: H10 Societies
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/79014/1/IIIT%20book%20chapter%203%20accessibility%20-%20sharing%20and%20caring%20for%20all.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/79014/

Society used to have the wrong perception of people with disabilities (PWD); disabled people were commonly viewed as not being able to perform in the way others were, a mistaken notion that resulted in them being excluded from the mainstream of the everyday-life-routine. Hence, they could not be actively involved in society. They were deprived of such fundamental rights as education and job opportunity. The worst part was perhaps when the community believed the myths that disabilities were inherited and due to curses. They were once stereotyped and labelled negatively, which resulted in them being sidelined and/or shied away from. However, the situation has been changing following decisive measures being taken by various parties, such as the government and nonprofit organizations, and also individuals in society. This has mainly been the result of PWD themselves starting to come forward to fight for their rights and prove to the community that they can contribute at par with others. Some have even proven to be outstanding in their fields too. All these bring awareness to the community, which provides a relentless focus on PWD. This chapter provides an overview of the types of disabilities and impairment, challenges faced by the disabled and impaired people, and the Islamic perspectives on this matter.