Accra:Visually impaired individuals in Malaysia can now learn about endangered forest tree species through a new tactile and Braille book, thanks to a collaboration between the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) and the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the book, titled "Sentuhan Rimba Mengenali Biji Benih Spesies Hutan yang Terancam di Malaysia," was developed under the Touch2Read project. It combines tactile illustrations and Braille to help readers explore seed characteristics and the diversity of Malaysia's forest species.
FRIM director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Parlan highlighted the importance of making the country's forest heritage accessible to everyone, including the visually impaired. He emphasized the necessity of providing opportunities for visually impaired individuals to learn about forest plant diversity through touch.
FRIM supported the project by supplying actual seed samples to the IIUM Touch2Read team, which were used as references for creating the tactile illustrations. The book covers seven endangered forest tree species found in Malaysia, detailing seed characteristics, botanical information, and uses of each tree.
Ismail stated that FRIM is committed to future collaborations on similar initiatives to benefit the visually impaired community. He expressed readiness for continued partnerships, possibly in the form of Touch2Read 3.0 or 4.0.
During the book launch, visually impaired IIUM students engaged in activities at FRIM's Dipterocarp Arboretum, using touch and smell to learn about plant characteristics. Farhan Azkalwafa Sufyan, a student pursuing a degree in Teaching English as a Second Language, noted that such activities help visually impaired people identify trees through touch and hearing.
Commemorative posters were also presented to representatives from participating communities, agencies, and strategic partners, including KL Braille Resources Sdn Bhd, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Pendidikan Khas Setapak, the Malaysian Association for the Blind, the National Library of Malaysia, and Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd.