Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in sharing findings from the 2021 population and housing survey, revealed that 1.6 per cent out of the total population (7,024 individuals) in Brunei has at least one disability.
The majority (58.5 per cent) falls within the productive age range of 15 to 64 years, while 25.6 per cent are under 15 years. About 78 per cent have one disability characteristic while the remaining 22 per cent experience multiple disabilities, he said.
The minister said this in his capacity as the Chairman of the Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC), highlighting key insights during the launch of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at PJSC yesterday.
Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said individuals with disabilities face additional challenges, making comprehensive healthcare essential and available for their well-being.
He underscored the significance of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), affirming the country’s commitment to creating an inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
“Rehabilitation plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential,” he said. “Quality rehabilitation services enhance independence, facilitate participation in daily activities and promote community engagement.”
He said the Ministry of Health will focus its rehabilitation efforts on addressing a spectrum of chronic or acute disability conditions in both adults and children.
“Through their comprehensive rehabilitation services, they aim to enhance the well-being and functional capacity of individuals, promoting optimal recovery and integration into society. “
He added the efforts of stakeholders including government agencies, non-governmental organisations, community groups and individuals, are important to foster a positive and inclusive environment by adapting policies, providing inclusive employment, ensuring accessible workplaces and prioritising early intervention and support services for holistic child development and education.
The minister stressed on the country’s commitment to investing in medical rehabilitation services, training staff, and exploring innovative technologies to address the evolving needs of individuals with disabilities.
“It will take actions to support this effort,” said Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham, “such as adapting policies and programmes to address the needs of people with disabilities and inclusive employment and accessible workplaces. We will put emphasis on early intervention and support to ensure the holistic development of children as well as the need for education.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 15 per cent of adults and children globally face disabilities, with two to four per cent encountering challenges to function on a daily basis. The number continues to rise due to factors like ageing and chronic diseases. – Lyna Mohamad
