01 October 2024 - Uncategorised

Acts e-Newsletter (October 2024 Issue)

Acts e-Newsletter (October 2024 Issue): Into the Deaf world…

Did you know that International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL) is celebrated annually across the world on 23 September every year along with International Week of the Deaf?

Quick stats!

As estimated by the World Federation of the Deaf, there are around 70 million Deaf people around the world.

In Malaysia, The Department of Social Welfare recently disclosed that there are 46,127 people in Malaysia living with hearing impairments, highlighting the urgent need for our society to fully comprehend and address the formidable obstacles these individuals face on a daily basis.

Contrary to the common assumption, there is no universal sign language. In fact, there are over 300 different sign languages in use around the world. Sign languages typically have their own grammar and syntax, which can be quite different from spoken languages.

In Malaysia, the principal language of the Deaf community here is “Malaysian Sign Language” (Malay: “Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia,” or “BIM”).

Feel nervous or shy when meeting a Deaf person?

Here are a few practical steps for you to consider when you meet and engage with a Deaf:

When you call…

If you’re calling the Deaf person from a distance, wave to get his/ her attention.
You can also tap him/ her on the arm or shoulder.
If he/ she moves away too quickly, call their phone.
To get his/ her attention, switch the room lights on and off.
You can also use your mobile phone’s flashlight to signal.

When you communicate…

Maintain eye contact when you communicate with a Deaf person.
Give some space between each other for him/ her to sign.
Avoid wearing facial masks or sunglasses.
Use a plain and dark pen or pencil when you write for him/ her to read.
Use simple words (avoid using jargon, short forms, and slang).

Did you know that we have a Deaf Community in Acts?

Our precious Deaf community pioneered and planted Acts Brickfields on 7 April 2024!!

Here are some snapshots from Acts Brickfields, Acts Deaf Ministry Camp as well as value-adding initiatives in conjunction with International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL)!