IWK champions inclusivity through Sahabat Istimewa initiative
Collaboration with Paralympic Council of Malaysia aims to raise awareness, create opportunities for persons with disabilities and support para athletes ahead of Asean Para Games 2027
HAJAR NAZLI
SHAH ALAM – Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Sdn Bhd has teamed up with the Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) to raise public awareness about persons with disabilities (PwDs) while recognising their talents, achievements and contributions to society.
Held at IWK Eco Park, Kuala Lumpur, the #WeThe15 Inclusive Together: Road to ASEAN Para Games 2027 event highlighted a shared commitment to building an inclusive society as the nation prepares to host the regional games in October next year.
IWK chief executive officer Datuk Ir Narendran Maniam said the collaboration was driven by the #WeThe15: Inclusive Together initiative, which forms part of the company's Sahabat Istimewa IWK programme.
Under the umbrella of IWK Cares, Sahabat Istimewa IWK reflects the company's commitment to supporting PwDs, creating opportunities for them to showcase their abilities and encouraging their active participation in society.
"IWK's responsibility is not merely to ensure the nation's sewerage services function well, but also to contribute to societal well-being, celebrate diverse abilities and create more equitable opportunities for all.
"In line with the goals of the global WeThe15 movement, which champions the rights and inclusion of the 15 per cent of the world's population comprising persons with disabilities, IWK is committed to supporting this agenda," Narendran said.
He also emphasised that the organisation actively provides employment opportunities for members of the community, noting that building an inclusive society requires continuous collective commitment from agencies, the corporate sector and the community, rather than relying on any single party.
The programme gave participants an opportunity to experience the abilities and talents of the PwD community through demonstrations of various para sports, including badminton, chess, table tennis and boccia.
Business booths hosted by the Community-Based Rehabilitation Centre, the Malaysian Federation of the Deaf, Usahawan Cendol Meleleh and Yayasan Chow Kit also provided a platform to showcase entrepreneurial initiatives within the community.
Narendran said the collaboration also aimed to strengthen support for para athletes ahead of the Asean Para Games 2027, which are scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur in October next year.
"I would also like to extend my congratulations to the Malaysian para contingent for their achievements at the 2026 Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, last week.
"The success of securing 27 medals, comprising six gold, eight silver and 13 bronze, demonstrates that tenacity, fighting spirit and determination can drive individuals to extraordinary success, serving as an inspiration to everyone," Narendran said.
CORPORATE SUPPORT KEY TO EMPOWERING THE PWD COMMUNITY
Echoing these sentiments, PCM president Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin expressed hope that the partnership would develop into a meaningful and long-lasting relationship.
He called on more corporate organisations to step forward and recognise that supporting PwDs goes beyond traditional charity, serving as an important pillar in building a genuinely inclusive society.
"I would like to record my appreciation and thank IWK, its management and everyone involved in making this initiative a success," Megat said.
Looking ahead, he urged stakeholders to ensure that the upcoming regional games leave a lasting legacy.
"Ahead of the Kuala Lumpur Asean Para Games 2027, let us work together to ensure that this major event leaves a legacy beyond sporting achievements.
"Let it create a deeper understanding, greater acceptance and continuous opportunities for persons with disabilities," Megat said.
He concluded by stressing that true inclusivity does not mean granting special privileges.
"Instead, it ensures that every individual has equal opportunities to participate, contribute and achieve success. Society must also work to dismantle barriers and foster a community that provides space and opportunities for everyone," Megat said.
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