A Global Gathering for Deaf Empowerment
The “Celebrating Thriving Deaf Communities” webinar, held on October 2-3, 2021, was an inspiring event that brought together the Interpreters and Translators Association for the Deaf Community in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor (JUPEBIM), the Malaysian Sign Language and Deaf Studies Association (MyBIM), and the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Deaf Media and Technology Association (DeafMT). Attracting around 250 participants from across the globe, the seminar set the stage for sharing knowledge and celebrating the vibrant growth of Deaf communities worldwide.
Opening New Paths with Knowledge and Partnership
The first day kicked off with a heartfelt welcome by MyBIM President Jessica Mak, leading into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing between JUPEBIM, MyBIM, and DeafMT. The day’s sessions opened new perspectives on topics like cultural appropriation in Malaysian Sign Language (BIM), the rise of tech-driven interpreting, inclusive sports for Deaf individuals, and mental wellness for interpreters. With experts like Ms. Ho Koon Wei from MyBIM and Dr. Nora Binti Mat Zain from IIUM, Day 1 left attendees energized and informed.
Voices from the World Stage and Closing Reflections
Day 2 spotlighted global perspectives on Deaf media strategies, challenges of legal interpreting, and the unique emotional journey of interpreters working across borders. Esteemed speakers, including Dr. Zubaidah Ibrahim-Bell and international guests like Ms. Low Jarn May from Singapore, shared their insights and experiences. The seminar closed with a powerful message from Dr. Zubaidah, emphasizing the value of shared knowledge and community support to drive the advancement of Deaf communities worldwide.
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