A Malaysian JPJ officer is currently receiving praise online for his skill and ability to use sign language to assist a differently-abled driver.
The Cikgu Tengku Faris Facebook page shared a video of the JPJ officer, Khai Zamri, while writing, “Not everyone is capable of learning sign language. This JPJ officer is the best, he is a gift that is invaluable to his agency as he is capable of helping the community.”
Maybe everyone should learn sign language!
However, this also started a discussion among Malaysians as many agreed that learning sign language can be an important skill that can help bridge communication gaps between the hearing and non-hearing communities.
Hence, they have suggested that sign language be taught in Malaysian schools.
“It doesn’t take long to learn how to spell in ASL (American Sign Language). In a day or 2, or in fact in a few hours, one can master the whole alphabet,”
“I took the initiative to learn it because I have staff members who are deaf and mute. Alhamdullilah, communication is easier now. It takes time to memorise other forms of communications. But, believe me, ASL is world-recognised and widely used.”
“Schools should teach sign language as an additional language as many of our friends may not understand us when we’re trying to help them. Our parents can also learn a little bit,”
“Us Malaysians are very community-based. If we learn sign language, it’ll definitely be more fun as there won’t be any borders between us and them.”
“I agree that sign language should be a subject in schools. As I have experience in helping the deaf and mute. It is saddening when we do not understand what they’re saying or trying to convey. But, we still managed to successfully help them.”
“Can include (sign language) in school education syllabus already.”
You can check out JPJ officer, Khai Zamri’s video here:
What are your thoughts on teaching sign language in schools? Do feel free to share in the comment section.
