Ras Adiba calls for inclusion for the Down Syndrome community

This year, the theme of World Down Syndrome Day is “Inclusion Means”, which calls for full and effective participation and inclusion in society for those with Down Syndrome.

OKU Sentral president Senator Datuk Ras Adiba said the term “inclusion” means that everyone is a part of everything and that no one is left behind.

She said it is our responsibility as a society to ensure they are well protected, that they get enough support and that they don’t face stigma or discrimination.

She added there are jobs that they are capable of doing and there are also courses that they can take to allow them to explore their skills and learn new things that can help them to be independent as a person with special health conditions.

“We need to know about what we can and cannot do while caring for them, and how to support their talents because they are talented individuals.

“They are so full of joy and it is very important that we make sure they get the proper education, how to look after themselves and how to be independent,” she told Sinar Daily.

“Meanwhile, the parents and the caregivers must come together with close reins because no one is going to speak on behalf of the Down Syndrome children except you, because you care for them so you know how special they are and if they need extra support,” she added.

Commenting further, she said the media plays an important role in disseminating the facts and information on how we can support the people with disabilities, especially people with Down Syndrome. .

She said the World Down Syndrome Day should also be dedicated to the caregivers, family members and friends of individuals with Down Syndrome.