Brunei Darussalam through the Whole-of-Nation approach remains actively committed to protecting and upholding the rights of persons with different abilities. This was highlighted by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports in a message in conjunction with the 32nd International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Nazmi Mohamad also shared that since the enforcement of the Persons with Disabilities Order on 1st October 2021, 5,443 individuals have registered into the Register of Persons with Disabilities. Meanwhile, 7,615 people are receiving Disability Allowances, of whom 1,195 receive both the Old Age Pension and the Disability Allowance. In addition, 3,164 caregivers to persons with disabilities receive Care Provider Allowances.
Also shared were several initiatives and the nation's achievements in protecting and upholding the rights of persons with different abilities. This includes the establishment of a task force for persons with disabilities or PWD vehicle sticker to strengthen accessibility and protecting PWD rights; the issuance of a new series of banknotes starting 2026 featuring tactile feature of raised dots to help visually impaired individuals in identifying denominations; and the SafeLink project, which is a safety bracelet for children with autism equipped with a QR code containing emergency contact information as a proactive measure to ensure their safety and well-being.
Celebrated every 3rd of December, this year's theme is 'Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.' The theme aligns with the National Action Plan on People with Different Abilities under the National Council on Social Issues, which emphasises building an inclusive environment and ecosystem for persons with different abilities. This includes accessible infrastructure, PWD-friendly facilities and communication, anti-discrimination practices in public spaces, as well as the development and enhancement of policies that incorporate the voices of persons with disabilities.
