The community of People with Disabilities (PwDs) is urging the Women, Family, and Community Development Ministry under Datuk Seri Rina Harun to change the word ‘Cacat’ (disabled) in the term ‘Elaun Pekerja Cacat or EPC (Allowance for Disabled Workers)’ to OKU (PwD), as they deem the word ‘Cacat’ as offensive.
Speaking to the media, the PwD representative in Parliament Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi said that the word ‘cacat’ looks down on the PwD community and wants a change to the term used.
“The use of the term ‘Cacat’ is like looking down on the PwD community and we are firm in wanting the term EPC to be changed to Allowance for OKU Workers.”
The term ‘Cacat’ has created unwanted uproar dor the Ministry, despite explaining that the term has been used since 1970.
Issuing a public apology last Friday, the term is set to change next month.
Rina Harun has since connected with the Senator on the matter, addressing her concern over the improper use of the terminology.
“I am grateful because she, herself, contacted me after the ministry found that many people were not happy with the use of EPC and I am grateful that our voice is heard and immediate action was taken by the ministry.”
Let’s hope that ministries are more aware of what they churn out in the future and avoid such conundrums from repeating themselves in the future.
Also read: PEMERKASA: Govt To Increase Allowance Limit For OKU Workers From RM1,200 To RM1,500
