1st Malaysia Deaf Summit
26th – 28th Sept 2025
Kingwood Hotel Sibu
Sibu, Sarawak
Inclusive Futures:
Advancing Access and Equity for Deaf Communities
The 1st Malaysia Deaf Summit will be held from 26–28 September 2025 at Kingwood Hotel Sibu, Sarawak. Organized by DAWN and hosted by the Sarawak Deaf Community Services Association, this summit aims to advance equity and access for Malaysia’s Deaf community.
With the theme “Inclusive Futures: Advancing Access and Equity for Deaf Communities”, the summit will focus on inclusive education, healthcare, legal advocacy, and cultural preservation. It provides a platform for researchers, advocates, educators, Deaf individuals, and students to collaborate and drive change.
Attendees are invited to the International Day of the Deaf (IDD) Celebration Dinner on 27 September, included in the summit fee. The dinner is also open to Deaf individuals not attending the summit.
The summit will be conducted in Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) and English. Presentations in Malay will not be translated into English.
Programme Schedule
Arrival of Participant & Registration
Dessert given by Duricendol at Kingwood Lobby
Introduction to BIM Linguistics
BIM as a Language: Understanding its Structure and Power
This session introduces the foundations of Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) as a complete language with its own grammar and structure. Participants will explore how BIM differs from systems like KTBM, and why understanding its linguistic features is crucial for effective teaching, interpreting, and community empowerment. The workshop includes hands-on linguistic activities to deepen awareness and appreciation of BIM’s richness.
Interpreting and Accessibility in Action
Professional Ethics and Real Inclusion: Rethinking Interpreting and Accessibility for the Deaf Community
This practical workshop explores the ethics and responsibilities of BIM interpreters, alongside strategies for making spaces and services accessible to Deaf people. Participants will examine real-life interpreting scenarios, discuss role boundaries and Deaf–hearing collaboration, and learn how to plan and communicate access more effectively. The session offers practical tools for ethical, inclusive, and Deaf-informed service delivery.
Deaf Leadership and Self-Advocacy
Empowering Ourselves: Deaf Leadership and Advocacy in Action
This empowering session supports Deaf participants in building confidence, leadership, and advocacy skills. Through storytelling, real-life experiences, and interactive activities, participants will explore how to speak up, influence change, and engage effectively with service providers and decision-makers. The session highlights the importance of self-representation and grassroots leadership within the Deaf community.
Opening & Keynote Presentation
Reclaiming Deaf Spaces: Language, Identity, and Cultural Power
Booth Visits & Networking
Special Presentation
Sign Language Interpreter Services in Thailand: Roles, Challenges, and Development Pathways for Deaf and Hearing Interpreters
Legal Interpreting for the Deaf Community in Malaysia: Challenges and Opportunities
Envisioning Inclusive Higher Education for the Deaf: A Regional Comparison of Hopes and Roles in Malaysia and China
Lunch Break
Special Presentation
Basis of Linguistics and Legal Transformation of Filipino Sign Language
Bridging the Gap: The Need for a Malaysian Sign Language Act [Akta Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia] (BIM Act) in Malaysia for True Inclusivity
Exploring Quality of Life Among Malaysian Deaf Adults: Educational Experiences and Preferred Sign Language
Booth Visits & Networking
Teachers’ Perception of Their Role in Teaching Mathematics to Deaf Students
Empowering Deaf Malaysians to Embrace AI Tools While Preserving Cultural and Linguistic Identity
Challenges and opportunities in Deaf healthcare access in malaysia
Moderated by Dr. Uma D. Palanisamy
IDD Celebration Dinner
Kingwood Hall, Ground Floor
Opening & Keynote Presentation
Deaf Futures: Innovation, Solidarity, and Sustainable Change
Booth Visits & Networking
Special Presentation
Past and Ongoing Efforts: Promoting Sign Language Rights and Strengthening Deaf Community in Indonesia
Promoting Healthy Ageing Across Deaf and Hearing Populations: Interdisciplinary Insights and Inclusive Strategies
SignHealth: A Pilot Study on Pharmacy related Malaysian Sign Language (BIM) and SLPharm Training to improve inclusive pharmacy services
Lunch Break
Special Presentation
Deaf Workforce: Ready to Build Opportunities Together
Bridge-D’Gap: Evaluating a Multimodal Strategy for Inclusive and Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Deaf Community in Malaysia
Inclusivity and Dialogue: A Sustainability Program Fostering Community Engagement Among Hearing and Deaf Communities
Booth Visits & Networking
Mental Healthcare Needs and Experiences of the Deaf Community in Malaysia
Unlocking STEM Potential: Inclusive Approaches for Lifelong Learning in Deaf Education
Charting the way forward: Building a more inclusive and empowered deaf future
Moderated by Dr. Nur Farhana Ardillah Aftar
Farewell
Attending the 1st Malaysia Deaf Summit
A Unique Opportunity for Change
The 1st Malaysia Deaf Summit offers an invaluable opportunity for those committed to advancing access and equity for the Deaf community. Attendees can engage in insightful sessions and workshops focusing on critical issues, including inclusive education, healthcare access, legal advocacy, and cultural preservation. This summit provides a unique platform for researchers, advocates, educators, Deaf individuals, and students to collaborate and contribute to creating a more inclusive future.
What is included in your registration fee?
- ✅Access to ALL summit sessions
- ✅All Workshops
- ✅TWO lunch meals
- ✅IDD Celebration Dinner
Your registration fee includes access to all summit sessions, all workshops, two lunch meals, and the International Day of the Deaf (IDD) Celebration Dinner. This dinner will be a key event for networking, celebrating the achievements of the Deaf community, and connecting with industry leaders and peers.
Just so you know, the registration fee does not cover accommodation, ground transport, or flight. Please plan your travel and lodging accordingly.
Registration Deadlines & Fees
To secure your spot at the summit, register before the deadlines. Early registration offers significant savings, as outlined below:
Early Bird Fee
(1 Feb 2025 - 30 Jun 2025)
Standard Fee
(1 Jul 2025 - 31 Jul 2025)
Special Rate for Merdeka Month - Extended
| Deaf / OKU individual (with a valid OKU card) | RM 270 per pax |
| Student (with a valid student card) | RM 300 per pax |
| Presenter | RM 400 per pax |
| Non-Student / Non-OKU | RM 420 per pax |
Bundle Fee (5 pax) - Extended
(Special Rate for Merdeka Month)
| Deaf / OKU individual (with a valid OKU card) | RM 1,300/group |
| Student (with a valid student card) | RM 1,300/group |
| Presenter | Not available |
| Non-Student / Non-OKU | RM 2,000/group |
Refund Policy
Cancellation on or
before 15 July 2025 – 100% refund,
before 1 August 2025 – 50% refund,
after 15 August 2025 – No refund
IDD Celebration Dinner
What is included in IDD Celebration Dinner?
- ❌Access to ALL summit sessions
- ❌TWO lunch meals
- ✅IDD Celebration Dinner
The International Day of the Deaf (IDD) Celebration Dinner is open to Deaf individuals across Malaysia who wish to attend without being obligated to join the entire 1st Malaysia Deaf Summit. This event provides a fantastic opportunity to network with Deaf people from various backgrounds and regions, creating valuable connections outside the summit and workshops. Whether you're a long-time advocate, a student, or a community member, this dinner is a great place to come together and celebrate the achievements of the Deaf community.
By registering for the dinner, you also have the chance to explore Sibu, as we offer two exciting tour packages (Package 1 and Package 2). These packages provide a fantastic opportunity to explore the local culture and heritage of Sibu. However, please note that the tour package cost is not included in the registration fee and must be paid separately. BIM interpreting services will be provided for free during the tour for all registered Deaf participants. Further details about the Sibu tour packages will be provided closer to the event, which will take place on 27 or 28 September 2024 (or both).
Attending the IDD Celebration Dinner is not only about enjoying a meal. It is also a chance to actively participate in recognising the Deaf community's contributions and to connect with people who share a passion for Deaf rights and well-being. Don’t miss this important event—it’s a unique occasion to strengthen bonds, celebrate progress, and support the ongoing efforts to make the world a more inclusive for the Deaf.
Fee Schedule
Please refer to the fee schedule below to understand the registration costs for the dinner.
Early Bird Fee (valid until 30 June 2025)
Standard Fee (valid until 31 July 2025)
Special Rate for Merdeka Month - Extended
| Deaf / Hearing Individuals | RM 150 per pax |
| Table for 10 seats | RM 1,000 |
Refund Policy
Just so you know, ticket purchases are nonrefundable. However, if you're not able to attend, you can arrange for a replacement. You must inform us in advance if you wish to make such arrangements.
Payment Details
Bank Name: CIMB Bank Berhad
Name: Pertubuhan Advokasi dan Kesejahteraan Pekak Malaysia
Account No: 8011 028 421
If you could not upload the payment slip in any of the registration forms above, please email us at dawnpekakcomm@gmail.com or WhatsApp at +60169803669 for verification purposes.
Call for Abstracts
Share Your Insights at the 1st Malaysia Deaf Summit
We are excited to invite researchers, advocates, educators, and professionals to submit abstracts for paper presentations at the 1st Malaysia Deaf Summit, scheduled for 26–28 September 2025 in Sibu, Sarawak. This summit provides a unique platform to share your insights, research findings, and innovative ideas with a diverse audience dedicated to advancing equity and well-being for the Deaf community in Malaysia.
Abstracts should align with the summit’s theme, “Inclusive Futures: Advancing Access and Equity for Deaf Communities,” and its subthemes, which cover topics such as inclusive education, accessible healthcare, legal advocacy, interpreting services, and the recognition of Deaf linguistic and cultural identity. Selected presenters will be able to inspire change, contribute to impactful discussions, and influence policies promoting inclusion and accessibility for Deaf individuals.
The deadline for abstract submissions has been extended to 30 June 2025, with notifications of acceptance to be sent within one month. If your abstract is accepted, you must submit a full manuscript in English by 1 November 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to share your work and collaborate with like-minded individuals at this transformative event! Presenters will need to register for the summit. There are no waivers for summit fees.
Important note: If accepted for the presentation, presenters must submit their presentation slides or full manuscript (if available) at least one week before the summit to allow time for the BIM interpreters' preparation.
Should you have any inquiries about the presentation, please contact Dr. Anthony Chong at anthonychong123@gmail.com or dawnpekakcomm@gmail.com or via WhatsApp at +60169803669.
Important Dates
Abstract Submission Deadline:
30 June 2025
Abstract Acceptance Notification:
Within 1 month after your submission date
Manuscript Submission Deadline:
1 November 2025
Building Inclusive Education for Deaf Empowerment
Focuses on curriculum development, bilingual education, and culturally relevant teaching methods that support equitable learning for Deaf students.
Health Equity for Deaf Communities: Accessible and Inclusive Care
Addresses accessible healthcare for Deaf individuals, including mental health services, interpreter availability, and Deaf-sensitive medical care.
Ensuring Access to Information and Interpreting Services in Public Spaces
Promoting equitable access to information and interpreting services in public domains, including government institutions, healthcare, education, and media.
Justice and Policy Advocacy: Ensuring Accessible Legal Systems and Enforcing Deaf Rights
Focuses on removing barriers within the justice system through accessible court interpreters, legal rights education, and fair treatment under the law, while also advocating for policy reforms and robust enforcement to uphold and protect the rights of Deaf communities.
Recognising and Celebrating Deaf Linguistic and Cultural Identity
Focuses on the importance of recognising Deaf people as a linguistic and cultural minority, promoting sign language recognition, and fostering cultural preservation through arts, literature, and heritage.
ORGANISED BY
HOSTED BY
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
MEDIA PARTNER
CORPORATE SPONSORS
CORPORATE PARTNER
IN-KIND SPONSOR
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
