Saturday, November 25, 2006

Statement on blind on IDD 2006, Nov 25, 2006

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Opinion
Saturday November 25, 2006


Software to help the blind

THE United Nation’s International Day of Disabled Persons which falls on Dec 3 provides a platform to promote understanding and to increase awareness of disability issues, and to rally support for the independence, integration, dignity, equal rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

With sound education, which should, in essence, be no different from that of any other person, the disabled can and should be integrated into and participate in every aspect of social, economic, political and cultural life.

To achieve a thorough education, the blind need “E- Accessibility” through special computer screen reading and other software and specialised computer hardware

There are many screen readers on the market. In Malaysia the popular one is called “JAWS ©” but it is very expensive with prices starting from about RM3,500, which is far beyond the reach of all but the fortunate few.

Even those who could perhaps afford to buy a basic computer may well be unable to afford a screen reader programme without which they are unable to use the computer.

Braille translator software, which provides translation and formatting facilities to automate the process of conversion from regular print to Braille (and vice-versa), is also a vital asset for the blind. Again, this type of software is very expensive.

A useful piece of computer hardware is a refreshable Braille display which provides Braille output from a computer, but these displays cost RM20,000 upwards, so almost every blind Malaysian is unable to buy and use them.

The blind must be given the opportunities to do more than make baskets, give massages, and beg for money by playing music, or selling tissues, by the roadside.

As the world celebrates the International Day of Disabled Persons, let every Malaysian help to open up opportunities for the disabled so that they can be integrated into society, be fully and independently able to participate in every aspect of life, go to work, raise a family, and be happy and contented citizens.



KATHLEEN MUNA OTHMAN,

President,

Support Group Society for the

Blind of Malaysia.








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Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Don't Cut Screening UMNO assembly proceedings, Nov 22, 2006

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Opinion
Wednesday November 22, 2006


A mistake to stop airing Umno assemblies

IT was reported that Malaysians may, in future, not be able to watch the Umno general assembly proceedings live on air again following criticisms the party received over the latest meeting, “Rethink on live telecast” (The Star, Nov 21).

I sincerely hope there is a rethink over the “rethink” because to cut Malaysians viewers off would be a big mistake.

There are hundreds – no, thousands – of us who love politics, especially with what goes on in the country.

Although I am not an Umno member, whatever is decided at the assembly affects me and all of Malaysia.

Naturally I would want to know everything that goes on there.

And although I do not have the time to catch all the speeches, I do make it a point to hear what I am interested in.

Let's face it, the print media and radio can only tell so much of what transpires at the assembly.

But on TV, we see virtually everything, including what our leaders wear, who they smile or whisper to. We get the facial and body expressions of the speakers.

TV also gives us an uncut version of the speeches made rather than a condensed one the next day in the print media.

Airing the Umno assembly will also inspire our younger generation to show interest in what is happening in our country, who the decision-makers are and how to engage in healthy and productive discussions and debates with those in power on issues that concern us all.

I think that if some people are concerned over things that are said in poor taste or are not fit for consumption – then those who say them should be careful not to utter them in the first place or behave properly in front of the camera.

I think it is also every Malaysian's right to have access to the proceedings.

TV NUT,
Kuala Lumpur.






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