The Maldives Parliament has decided to also include sign language as a medium for broadcasting the house proceedings in a move that would increase the sense of inclusion in the society for disabled people.

Sign language will be used in all the sessions from Monday, 18 April onwards, as well as any significant interviews as well, said Hassan Ziyaau, the Communications Director for Parliament.

Interestingly, the idea came in December last year during the youth parliament. Mohammed Nasheed, the speaker of the Maldivian Parliament, who was attending the event as a guest, was suggested to also include sign language as the medium of broadcasting.

Nasheed, who has been the archipelago’s first democratically elected president, quickly agreed to the suggestion.

“We are starting off with Parliament sessions and important events. After that, by the grace of God, we will be bringing committee meetings in sign language as well,” Ziyaau was quoted as saying by Sun news.

(SAM)