Herald Malaysia
PETALING JAYA – The Catholic Ministry for the Deaf (CMfD), under the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development (AOHD), marked the International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL) 2025 with a vibrant celebration at the Church of the Assumption on Sep 28.
This year’s global theme, No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights, underscored the importance of recognising sign language as a fundamental human right and promoting inclusion for the Deaf community.
The morning celebration began with the recitation of the Rosary, followed by an interpreted Mass at 8.30am. The Mass, celebrated by Archbishop Julian Leow and concelebrated and interpreted by Fr Michael Chua, ecclesiastical assistant for CMfD, offered worshippers a meaningful experience that bridged the gap between the Hearing and Deaf communities.
During the liturgy, the faithful were reminded to “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4), as both clergy and congregation embodied the spirit of unity and joy. After Mass, Aldeany, a Deaf youth, shared his personal reflection, reminding all that being Deaf is not a disability but a different way of experiencing the world. “Sign language is my voice,” he said, expressing his deep love for God.
Also in attendance were Dr Gary Liew, AOHD director, and Bro Jescie Petrus Petu, whose presence was warmly appreciated by the community.
After Mass, the congregation gathered for an informative session on Deaf Culture and Community, emceed by Charles Thin, a Deaf host whose engaging dramatizations and interactive games brought laughter and participation from all.
A captivating traditional dance by Teresa Chong, a Deaf performer, showcased the richness of Deaf culture, followed by an exhibition highlighting CMfD’s past events and initiatives promoting inclusivity and empowerment.
One of the day’s highlights was the launch of the “Holy Rosary in BIM” video project — a series of Rosary prayers in Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (Malaysian Sign Language). The initiative, a year and a half in the making, was created by Deaf individuals for the Deaf community.
Genevieve Yap, interpreter and faith team coordinator, explained that the videos aim to make the Rosary accessible to Deaf Catholics and encourage daily devotion. Each mystery of the Rosary is illustrated through 20 original sketches by Catholic Deaf artist Lim Anuar (Max), organised into the Joyful, Sorrowful, Glorious, and Luminous sets. The videos are now available on the CMfD website: www.catholicministryfordeaf.my
Christina Lee, a veteran hearing interpreter with over 20 years of experience, then shared her personal journey in interpreting, offering heartfelt insights into the vital role interpreters play in bridging communication between the Deaf and Hearing.
The session concluded with a Q&A segment, followed by the introduction of the IDSL 2025 Organising Committee, led by Isabella Peng, a Deaf coordinator, alongside her dedicated team of Deaf and Hearing members. Their collaboration reflected the event’s theme of true inclusion and partnership.
The celebration concluded with a fellowship lunch, fostering community bonds and continued dialogue between participants.
More than just an annual observance, the International Day of Sign Languages 2025 served as a powerful call to action. By championing Sign Language rights, the event reaffirmed the dignity, inclusion, and spiritual belonging of Deaf individuals in every part of society, especially within faith communities. – Herald Malaysia
