Employment of Persons with Disabilities: Law and Policy

• Main Authors: Abdul Wahab, Harlida, Arshad, Rozita, Ayub, Zainal Amin
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: K Law (General)
• Online Access: https://repo.uum.edu.my/id/eprint/31140/1/SHPSPT%2001%202013%20603-614.pdf; https://repo.uum.edu.my/id/eprint/31140/

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) remain neglected in many areas. Majority of them live in poverty and suffer discrimination, exclusion and prejudice. They face severe unemployment. Their employment rate is very low when compared to those without disabilities. Recently, initiatives and measures are keenly taken by government to include PWDs within the society so as to improve their lives and wellbeing. This paper focuses on the laws and policies of government in relations to employment right of the PWDs. The discussion begins with an elaboration to the international instrument that relates with the right of disabled people namely the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. As far as the law is concerned, the Federal Constitution as the basis of deliberations for fundamental rights, and Persons With Disabilities Act 2008 as the main legislations for PWDs, are scrutinized. Discussion is also imparted on the policies and initiatives of government in supporting the position of disabled persons in employment. In examining this right, a doctrinal research approach is utilized whereby descriptive and exploratory studies are undertaken in order to describe the laws and policies, as well as to determine the gaps. The authors conclude that some parts of the law need to be reviewed for the improvement and progress of the PWDs. Believing that substantive law alone is inadequate for safeguarding and improving lives of PWDs, its application and implementation must come along with appropriate plans and programmes to further support PWDs’ surroundings especially in the aspects of movement and accessibility. The most vital nonetheless is understanding and cooperation from the society at large, particularly the employers