Deaf Skills and Deaf Advocacy @ RC Deaf Missions Malaysia

Recently I went to the last RC Deaf Missions Malaysia event, "A Show of Deaf Skills-Deaf Talent Undenied" and "Deaf Advocacy - Sharings by Deaf from different walks of life" on September 24th. It is a truly awesome to see a few Deaf Panelists, Akira and his two sons, Immanuel and Micaiah, Edward, Rachel and Timothy(Married Couple) and Selina who share their experiences and stories. 

They had different experiences throughout their lives, but they faced the same obstacles and difficulties, especially since they were labelled "Deaf." Not only them, but many Deaf people have experienced this. However, this does not stop them from achieving their goals and desires. It indicated that they can successfully study at a university and work in the same field as hearing. By the way, I just summarized their story, which is quite fascinating. Let's get started and read my summary below.

According to Akira's story, he struggled with his studies in LimKokWing University College because he could not hear and understand what the lecturer said, and he was not good at writing English. The most interesting part is when he recorded the audio cassette in class. He then asked a JBIM to listen to the audio and interpret for him until late at night. At that time, there was no more advanced technology than there is today. Thus he prefers JBIM(Interpreter) to help him and understand the subjects more better. Finally, he earned a nice position as an interior designer after completing his studies. Meanwhile, his two sons, Immanuel and Micaiah, admired their father, Akira, who worked very hard to ensure that they studied in school and had a better life, and they feel Akira is the best father and role model they have ever had. They claim that it is difficult for them to study in school because some of their teachers are not proficient in BIM. 

Here's Edward's story. He has enjoyed drawing since he was a child, and he admits that he prefers drawing to studying. He realised, however, that studying is important because it will help him find a better future where he wants to be an Artist, Storyteller, Writer, and Speaker. He wishes to share his experiences in order to inspire and change the lives of others. He recently completed his internship and will soon graduate from HELP University College, where he is studying for his Diploma. Aside from that, he was able to place in the top ten of the Monstar Award 2021 after his second attempt to compete in the Monstar in the years 2020 and 2021.

In addition, the story of Rachel and Timothy, an elderly married couple, illustrates challenging life can be without modern technologies. For instance, we are luckier than them since we can communicate with hearing using technology like mobile phones, Whatsapp, email, and many other tools. Additionally, there is a lack of understanding of the Deaf community and a lack of JBIM resources throughout their era. By the way, they surprised a lot of their managers, boss and coworkers with their capabilities and diligence. They currently have two lovely daughters. Both of their daughters are familiar with BIM, and one of them enjoys assisting and interpreting for them when necessary.

Selina's story, she faced a challenge when she applied to MMU Cyberjaya because she wanted to continue her studies after SPM, but they refused her due to her disability/OKU status although she had passed SPM. However, she did not give up and went with her mother to meet with the chancellor and officers about the discussion for accepting her into MMU University. Finally, she was accepted to university. She currently has a good job as a Senior Designer. Beside that, she is First Deaf Blogger in Malaysia. 

I am certainly proud of what they have accomplished. I am Deaf too. Anyone can be inspired by such a moving story. As a result, this event will help hearing people gain a better understanding of Deaf life and culture. Of course, while indirectly inspiring Deaf people. Deaf People Can Do It! Regardless of the difficult circumstances and problems they encountered. It emphasises that Deaf people can do anything except hearing. Thankful to them for their wonderful stories. 

Aside from that, a lucky draw will be held following the closing event. Few people will be selected for the special lucky draw. Congratulations to everyone who received a drawing prize, including myself. Receiving the Lucky Draw's gift is a pleasant surprise once more.

Last but not least, I am delighted to see Selina, my best friend, and Edward, my junior, sharing their stories. After a long time of not seeing each other, I am extremely happy to see my junior. Yes, I certainly admit that the majority of Deaf people, including myself, have the same difficulties; but, this does not stop us from achieving our goals and realising our aspirations. In my life, I have a lot of goals and desires that I want to achieve. I believe they do the same as I do.

Overall, this event is quite good because it can inspire anyone and raise awareness about the Deaf Community and Deaf Culture. Hopefully, more Deaf people will share their stories and inspire the public. It demonstrates that the Deaf can do everything that the hearing can do.

International Sign Language Day may have passed, but that doesn't mean we should stop promoting it. Let's raise awareness of the Deaf Community and the importance of BIM (Bahasa Malaysia Isyarat/Malaysian Sign Language) in order to pique the interest of more people and communicate with the Deaf. It would be more exciting and enjoyable.

In conclusion, I must say that I am thrilled to attend all event hosted by the RC Deaf Mission every week in September 2022. It is definitely a fantastic time. No worries, you can contact RC Deaf Missions Malaysia if you are interested in learning BIM courses. What are you waiting for? 

If you are interested, you can visit their Facebook Page or Website and Instagram Page

RC Deaf Missions Malaysia
55 Ground Floor,  Jalan SS 25/2, Taman Bukit Emas,
47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Tel : 019 261 9920