THE Teluk Bahang Community Rehabilitation Centre (PPDK) has received a significant boost with the official commencement of operations at its new premises on Level 1 of Balai Rakyat Teluk Bahang, offering a safer, more comfortable and conducive environment for its trainees.
Previously, PPDK Teluk Bahang operated from a rented facility at Lorong Nelayan 3, which no longer met the centre’s growing needs.
The opening ceremony of the new premises was officiated today by Penang Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim.
Also in attendance were Balik Pulau MP Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, MBPP councillor Ooi Mei Mei, Penang Social Welfare Department director Rozita Ibrahim and PPDK Teluk Bahang chairman Zuki Hasan.
In her speech, Lim said the relocation was the result of follow-up action stemming from her visit to PPDK Teluk Bahang on March 25 last year under the Jelajah Manfaat Rakyat programme.
“At that time, I was informed that the centre was operating from a cramped rented premises that no longer met the needs of its trainees.
“PPDK Teluk Bahang currently accommodates 35 persons with disabilities (OKU).
“Space constraints not only affected the implementation of daily activities, but also raised concerns related to safety and compliance with local authority requirements.
“This need goes beyond the issue of a building as it concerns the comfort and future of our OKU children,” she said.
Lim also expressed her appreciation to MBPP for its willingness to provide space at Balai Rakyat Teluk Bahang as the centre’s new operating location.
“This reflects the effectiveness of cooperation between the state government, the local council, elected representatives and the local community,” she added.
She further commended PPDK Teluk Bahang for its active and progressive achievements.
“Among them are the success of six trainees who have continued their education under the Integrated Special Education Programme (PPKI), as well as four trainees who have secured employment outside the centre.
“In addition, PPDK Teluk Bahang has implemented the PPDK Nursery initiative based on hydroponic farming, along with specialised skills training through the 3T Concept (plant, stay and harvest).
“These achievements clearly demonstrate the ability of persons with disabilities to be independent and to contribute meaningfully when given the right opportunities and support,” Lim said.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Bakhtiar expressed his appreciation to the entire PPDK Teluk Bahang community, particularly its staff and volunteers, for their sacrifices, patience and strong commitment in guiding and caring for the welfare of persons with disabilities.
He also contributed funds to assist in the provision of facilities at PPDK Teluk Bahang, in support of strengthening the centre’s operations.
Rajendran emphasised that MBPP’s role extends beyond physical urban development to include the social well-being of the people.
“A truly developed city is one that is inclusive and leaves no one behind, including persons with disabilities.
“MBPP is honoured to support PPDK Teluk Bahang by providing a more suitable premises, in line with the Penang2030 vision of creating a liveable, people-centric city,” he said.
Rajendran also expressed his appreciation to Lim for highlighting the needs of PPDK to MBPP, describing it as a fine example of effective collaboration between elected representatives, the local authority and the community.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of YB Lim’s office