After two weeks of learning, witnessing and experiencing the history, development and success of the Independent Living in Japan, it was time to wrap up the training and draw up an action plan to be implemented in Malaysia. The three-year plan for Penang included a series of seminars, peer counselling training and sessions. The ultimate goal is to set up an Independent Living Centre to serve people with disabilities, especially those with severe impairment.
After we have presented our three-year action plan, Nakanishi-san, Akiyama-san and Tsutsumi-san commented on how we could further improve and execute our plans. Basically, the action plan that I presented is derived from the discussions that I have been continuously having with several PWD Leaders in Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Kuan Aw, Christine, Mee Hong and I share a common vision on how we could achieve this goal. I am confident that by working together we can successfully carry this through. People with disabilities, like everyone else, have the right to self-determination.
