SOCIAL IMPACT (EQUALITY)

Existence of Disability Support Office

The university provides dedicated support services for students with disabilities through the Student Disability (OKU) Support Unit, which operates under the Department of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) and was established in November 2019. The unit was created to support students with disabilities in managing campus-related matters and to ensure that relevant information and assistance are effectively communicated to them.

To verify eligibility for disability-related support, students are required to register with the Department of Social Welfare and obtain an OKU card with an official registration number. Eligible students may then access financial support with assistance differentiated according to level of study and applicable allowance categories.

Beyond administrative and financial support, the university has introduced several initiatives to strengthen inclusion and student wellbeing. In 2020, the university appointed Dr. Ruzimi Mohamed, a UTM alumnus, as the university’s OKU icon to inspire and motivate students with disabilities. Since then, engagement activities and programmes have been organised, including online engagement sessions and a meet-and-greet event with the OKU icon.

The university also provides practical mobility and welfare support for students with disabilities. This includes a transport service from classes, particularly for students with physical disabilities, to help ensure they are able to continue their studies without disruption. For students experiencing temporary mobility limitations, the University Health Center (PKU) provides loans of manual wheelchairs and walking support sticks.

Accessible accommodation is also available on campus. At Ninth Residential College (women’s college), the university has prepared ten disability-friendly rooms equipped with features such as accessible toilets and wheelchair pathways, demonstrating readiness to support both permanent and temporary disability needs.

For more information on UTM’s disability welfare and support services, please refer to the Student Affairs Office webpage: https://studentaffairs.utm.my/bantuan-kebajikan/