ADAPTING TO TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE
It is no surprise that technological changes over the last decade have led to foundational metamorphosis in the manner of every singular function of work from manufacturing and production, to developmental processes and beyond. According to the McKinsey Global Institute, while low-skilled jobs have been replaced by adaptive automation leading to unemployment for many, the introduction of AI, robotics and algorithmic solutions has brought about a welcome shift in this trend. Addressed as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, this technological rising has led to expansion of opportunities for PWDs in the fields of manufacturing and various service-led industries. Governments in ASEAN region are alert to his opportunity for its citizens with disabilities. For instance, Singapore’s Ministry of Social & Family Development has a dedicated program to train PWDs for emerging jobs and place them through partner organisations.
GIG ECONOMY’S BIG WINS FOR PWD COMMUNITY
With the emergence of short-term contracts and relaxed work arrangements for freelancers and self-employed individuals, doors have opened for aspirant PWDs. While prospective employment opportunities may require technological support like assistive devices and internet access to enter the gig economy, this model is bound to provide PWDs the crucial flexibility in terms of place and time of work, also resulting in low incidental costs pertaining to daily commute, work station, etc.
“BREAK THE SILENCE” PROJECT IN MALAYSIA GRABS ATTENTION
Setting an example for companies globally, Grab Technologies (offering ride-hailing, food delivery services and payment solutions) initiated this project to broaden the horizon for PWDs and give them a fair chance at rightful employment. Hired as drivers and delivery partners, so far over 500 individuals with deafness, cerebral palsy or motor impairments have benefited from this initiative. Alongside, they are also eligible for the benefits programme (covering insurance) thus not just supporting livelihood but also strengthening financial resilience.
COVID-19 AND ITS IMPACT ON PWDs
Employment and social protection support centres have been set up by various governments to safeguard the income security and livelihoods of PWDs post the pandemic. The objective is to encourage flexible working arrangements, encouraging employment by providing subsidies to companies, setting up online training and recruitment service platforms, providing cash transfers and in-kind aid such as food packages and hygiene kits, and undertaking administrative measures, such as ensuring the timely payment of disability allowances and extending the validity period of disability certificates, to ensure the continued receipt of disability-related allowances.
Various steps have led to noteworthy progress in opening channels towards an equality- based approach. Governments, public and private entities and various service providers have made considerable efforts in this direction too. For instance, Thailand’s Ministry of Labour grants significant tax relief to organisations that employ PWDs, encouraging companies to hire at least one PWD for every 100 employees. With more being done in the ASEAN region with a human-rights-based approach to fill in gaps in the employment status of PWDs, engaging and encouraging active participation of PWDs in the implementation of policy recommendations is sure to have a positive socio-economic impact in the years to come.
HIGHLIGHTS
Stay up to update with our latest news.
Have Us Contact You
