Sibu: The Deaf Advocacy and Wellbeing National Organisation (DAWN), in collaboration with the Sarawak Deaf Community Services Association (SDCSA), will host the inaugural Malaysia Deaf Summit 2025 from September 26 to 28 in Sibu. This event aims to advance inclusivity, accessibility, and empowerment for the deaf community nationwide.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Community Well-being Development Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam announced the summit at a press conference, describing it as a potential catalyst for systemic reform. He highlighted the barriers faced by the deaf community in achieving full participation in society and emphasized the need for accessibility, funding for community-led initiatives, and greater representation in policymaking. He also called for legislative reforms in employment, education, and sign language services.

Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) CEO Amelia Roziman emphasized the importance of inclusive development, stating that the summit would amplify voices that have long been overlooked. She noted that the platform champions progress and reinforces the deaf community’s role in Malaysia’s development.

SDCSA president Albert Wong Tuong Chui expressed that the summit would pave the way for long-term change, aiming to break barriers and open new pathways for the deaf community nationwide. Themed ‘Inclusive Futures: Advancing Access and Equity for Deaf Communities’, the summit will address topics such as inclusive education, healthcare access, public information, legal empowerment, sign language interpretation services, and cultural preservation.

The summit is supported by the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development; State Welfare Department; Women’s Department; and the Sarawak Social Development Council. Participants will include researchers, educators, students, advocates, and members of the deaf community from Malaysia and abroad.