Our members have platform to earn money, says deaf society
KUCHING: The Sarawak Society for the Deaf (SSD) has clarified that beggars at restaurants or any public places are not members of SSD.
Its vice-chairman, Joanna Wong revealed this when asked by New Sarawak Tribune to comment on the rising number of beggars at its booth here at the Rainforest World Music Festival 2019 (RWMF) yesterday.
Joanna said the beggars who had approached members of the public from table to table either to solicit for funds or sell key chains are not locals, but from China.
“I once encountered this when I was approached by a woman, and she’s deaf.
“When I asked her (using sign language) whether she’s from China, she nodded her head,” she said.
She further explained that the association does not encourage its members to go begging around town.
“SSD helps to provide a platform for its members to earn money. For example, we have a carwash service which is handled by our members,” Joana elaborated.
Expressing concern if the beggars are connected to any illegal activities, she reiterated that she did offer to help the woman.
“I also asked whether she needed help, but she just kept silent which I think was because of the language barrier,” she said.
