By Sandra Gisela
BALI, THEIMAGE.ID – The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) has reaffirmed its commitment to equality for people with disabilities in sports. Deputy for Persons with Disabilities at Kemenpora, Ibnu Hasan, encouraged all parties to participate in paying more attention to people with disabilities, both across ministries, regions, and institutions.
“Handling persons with disabilities requires more than just technical skills. It requires personality, empathy, and an above-average attitude,” said Ibnu Hasan at the Infinity Jimbaran ballroom, Bali, on Thursday (19/12/2024).
Currently, Ibnu sees that people with disabilities are already quite equal to those who are not. Judging from the world Paralympics and the national Peparnas, many people with disabilities have achieved achievements. Therefore, he hopes that governors, regents, and mayors will really think about facilities and infrastructure that are friendly to people with disabilities.
Government support is present with the establishment of the Special Center for Disabled Sports (SKODI) located in Solo. Specifically, SKODI networks with high-achieving disabled athletes in sports so that they can continue to channel their talents in national and international events.
On the same occasion, Norman Yulian from the Indonesian Disabled Persons Association (PPDI) underlined the importance of implementing Law Number 8 of 2016 concerning Persons with Disabilities. In this law, the rights of persons with disabilities are guaranteed, including the rights to education, work, health, accessibility, and participation in society.
“Before the enactment of Law No. 8 of 2016, disabilities were often seen as a form of charity. However, after Indonesia ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in Paris, changes began to occur. Now disabilities are seen as equal rights,” said Norman.
In addition, Norman also emphasized the importance of family in supporting people with disabilities. According to him, the family is the primary foundation in motivating people with disabilities, but sometimes there are limitations set for people with disabilities who want to interact in society.
“There are still parents who restrict their children, who have disabilities, from leaving the house for fear of being ridiculed. This should be eliminated, it is precisely the support of parents that brings their children to achieve and have potential in any field. Just look at Putri Ariani who has become a singer with international achievements,” he said.***
