Program Overview
Universiti Malaya Community Program: Be ABLE
Introduction
The Be ABLE program is a community-focused initiative aimed at empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and their caregivers through education, rehabilitation, and innovative technologies.
Community Problem
Knowledge Gap
PWDs face limited access and lack of information for proper assistive device usage and self-rehabilitation techniques.
Health & Wellbeing
Psychological burdens, including trauma, depression, anxiety, and social isolation, are prevalent among PWDs.
Static Methods
Traditional rehabilitation methods lack engagement and effectiveness, often leading to reduced patient motivation.
Main Objective
To create a collaborative multidisciplinary platform that empowers PWDs and their caregivers through education, rehabilitation, and innovative technologies.
Empowerment
Educate PWDs on proper use of assistive devices to improve mobility and independence.
Caregiver Support
Train caregivers in psychological support, effective communication, and legal rights.
VR Innovation
Introduce VR as a non-drug pain management tool to boost recovery through immersive therapy.
Sub-Projects
- Assistive Device Self-Rehab: Focusing on Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Assistive Devices. This project bridges the knowledge gap by providing direct training for device mastery.
- Leader: Nasrul Anuar Abd Razak
- Target: 250 PWDs (UniSZA & PERKESO)
- SDG 3: Good Health
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequality
- Innovative VR Solutions: Providing immersive VR solutions for pain relief in rehabilitation programs, specifically targeting chronic pain patients.
- Leader: Nur Afiqah Hashim
- Target: 50 Chronic Pain Patients
- SDG 3: Good Health
- SDG 9: Innovation
Project Outcomes
| Output Area | Achieved Status |
|---|---|
| Education (Sub-Project 1) | Initial sessions delivered at UniSZA & PERKESO on assistive devices. |
| Social Rehabilitation | PWDs identified; small-group sharing sessions and interviews conducted. |
| Virtual Rehabilitation | UI/UX design completed; first version of VR app is ready. |
| Cross-Cutting Impact | Needs assessment and baseline study completed. |
Stakeholder Engagement
- MOH & PERKESO
- UniSZA (Medical)
- Device Industries
- PWD NGOs
- Local Media
- YB Datuk Ahmad Amzad
Future Execution Plan
Short-Term (0-6M)
- Capacity building for staff/caregivers and strengthening hospital partnerships.
Mid-Term (6-18M)
- Project expansion within current region and seeking joint agency funding.
Long-Term (18-36M)
- Project replication in new states and establishing international partnerships.