Embracing inclusive employment

Jul 28, 2023

In today’s society, creating an inclusive workforce is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage for businesses. Among the diverse group of individuals who are often overlooked in employment opportunities are those with intellectual disabilities. There are many reasons for inclusively hiring Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (PwID), highlighting the benefits they bring to the workforce and the positive impact it has on organisations and society as a whole.

Diversity and inclusion for all
While the corporate industry has been doing a brilliant job in embracing diversity in the workplace, the minorities in this group who are yet unable to speak out loudly enough for themselves are not being included. By inclusively hiring PwID, companies send a powerful message to the broader community that diversity is valued. It fosters an environment of acceptance, respect and understanding of the world of a PwID. Hiring PwID brings a unique perspective to the workplace, promoting diversity of thought and challenging existing norms. Persons with Intellectual Disabilities have different experiences and approaches that can contribute creativity, innovation, and fresh problem-solving techniques.

Nurturing strengths
PwID possess a range of unique skills and talents. While their level of abilities, speed and rate of performance may vary, they excel in areas of work that may seem tedious and repetitive to you and me. They have great attention to detail, repeated task, adherence to schedules, and perseverance. There is numerous research that have shown that employees with intellectual disabilities have enjoyed high levels of job satisfaction and commitment. When proper training and support is provided, they can be productive and reliable contributors to the workplace. Their enthusiasm and determination to work often result in a punctual and reliable task force with low turnover rates. Additionally, the presence of PwID in the company would promote teamwork and collaboration. Their presence anyway very naturally encourages empathy, patience, and communication among everyone around them. Additionally, the positive impact they have on team spirit can lead to improved overall productivity and employee satisfaction.

Gainful Employment
Person with intellectual disabilities are persons first before their disabilities. Just like you and me, they have many needs and desires. Have you spoken to someone with disabilities recently? When you do, you often find that they would like to enjoy experiences just like you and me. They would like to hold a job of their own, earn an income of their own and spend their own money to make purchase of their desires. When hiring PwID, you will provide them with gainful and purposeful employment. By being involved in meaningful work and having work is a way for them to be engaged, especially within their community and society at large. Hiring them gives them a sense of purpose and something that they can be proud of.

Positive organisational impact The current consumer trend is increasingly prioritising businesses that demonstrates commitment and social responsibility to add value to the community at large. By embracing inclusive hiring, your company’s reputation would be greatly enhanced. Furthermore, some PwID are so full of life and enjoy meeting new people. Hiring them in front end customer service will not only bring joy to customers as they are able to create a positive experience for them but also leave a lasting impact, one you can be guaranteed will be talked about frequently.

Cost incentives
Did you know that there are many government initiated incentives in Malaysia for companies hiring persons with disabilities? Companies hiring employees with disabilities will enjoy tax deductions as stated in Section 33 (1) of the Income Tax Act. Sometimes, there are accessibility factors to be considered when hiring PwID. The Malaysian government also provides remuneration on costs incurred when hiring persons with disabilities (e.g. any renovation or equipment purchased to accommodate an employee with disability) is also available. Finally, in Budget 2023, it is stated that employers will also be incentivised for hiring PwID.

Win-Win
Inclusively practicing hiring persons with intellectual disabilities is a win-win proposition for businesses and society as a whole. By embracing diversity and creating inclusive workplaces, organisations can tap into a pool of untapped talent that will benefit the economy. When we all begin prioritising inclusivity, we will create a Malaysia where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to their fullest potential.

(Ivy loves that she gets to live out her vocation through her profession. Along with her partners, she has developed a pre-employment training and job placement programme for individuals with learning and intellectual disabilities. Learn more about their efforts through myemployable.com)