The Residential College Committee of Kolej Siswa Jaya (JKM KSJ) organized the ‘Silent Symphony: Sign Language Workshop’ on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at Bilik Kebudayaan Blok A, KSJ. This event aimed to bridge the gap between the hearing and deaf communities. The workshop featured two esteemed representatives from the Malaysia Federation of the Deaf (MFD), Pn. Saadah and En. Muhammad Fakhrurazzi, who are deaf, along with a translator, Cik Zuraidah, to facilitate communication. The involvement of MFD was important as they brought expertise and firsthand experience to the workshop.
The main objective of the program was to provide participants with an opportunity to learn Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) from professionals and to foster greater understanding and awareness of the deaf community in Malaysia. The workshop began with an insightful session about the mission and vision of the MFD and the crucial role it plays in supporting the deaf community. Participants also gained an in-depth understanding of the deaf community’s unique ways of communication, culture, challenges, and the importance of inclusivity. Professionals from the MFD led the interactive segment, which covered the fundamentals of BIM—including self-introduction, verbs, the alphabet, numbers, colors, and more—to ensure accurate and efficient learning.
The Silent Symphony workshop had a significant impact on the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) community. Through this program, UTM students and staff acquired valuable skills in sign language, enhancing their ability to communicate with the deaf community. This newfound skill set has not only enriched their personal and professional lives, but has also contributed to a more inclusive campus environment.
Nur Arina, the director of this program and a member of JKM KSJ, expressed that the workshop was a fantastic opportunity for both students and community members to immerse themselves in the world of sign language and the deaf community. She believes that understanding and learning BIM can help foster a more inclusive environment for everyone.
The workshop also highlighted UTM’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, emphasizing the university’s proactive approach to creating an environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, feel welcomed and supported.
The Silent Symphony workshop marked a significant step towards inclusivity and mutual understanding. By participating in this program, individuals not only acquired valuable language skills but also contributed to a more inclusive and empathetic society. The workshop sets a model for other institutions to follow, demonstrating the benefits of integrating such programs into their communities.
“This initiative by JKM, KSJ and MFD sets a precedent for other educational institutions. It’s inspiring to see such dedicated efforts to bridge communication gaps and promote understanding,” commented Dr. Azlan bin Suhot, the Principal of KSJ.