Amendment to regulation mandates designation of certain jobs for persons with disabilities

An amendment to the existing employment regulations was published on Monday, requiring the designation of certain job positions to increase employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The amendment marks the first revision to the "Regulation on Providing Employment Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities," which came into effect in 2024.

Under the revised regulation, employers are now required to establish designated positions for persons with disabilities in line with government policy, with the aim of improving access to employment and promoting greater workplace inclusion.

The regulation outlines three key standards that must be observed throughout the recruitment and employment process for persons with disabilities:

Standards on workplace requirements, facilities, and accessibility measures that must be provided by employers hiring persons with disabilities.

Standards relating to "reasonable adjustments" and accommodations that employers are required to implement to ensure the effective inclusion of persons with disabilities in the workplace.

General standards governing the recruitment, employment, and placement of persons with disabilities.

To strengthen employment retention, the amended regulation also requires employers to submit relevant employment information to the Ministry within five working days of appointing a person with a disability.

Additionally, the regulation places greater emphasis on the implementation of awareness and sensitization programs for both employers and employees. These initiatives are intended to foster a more inclusive work environment and support the long-term career development and retention of persons with disabilities.

The amendments come amid continued concerns over workplace discrimination and the barriers faced by persons with disabilities in accessing and maintaining employment.