Malaysiakini is widely recognised for its diverse news sites in English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil.
However, not many know that for the last 10 years, we also provided a special version tailored for the visually impaired.
The Malaysiakini for Visually Impaired page is designed with a simple text format and has been live since 2015. In 2022, we started offering it as a free public service to members of the Malaysian Association for the Blind.
Wong Yoon Kiong, a loyal user of our VI site, said he appreciated the structured simplicity and enjoyed the clean, ad-free experience.
“What I like the most is the systematic structure of the website. It is easy to access because there are three headings I need to go to - Latest 20 News, Latest 5 Columns Article, and Latest 5 Letters.
“The Malaysiakini VI version has provided me with an alternative source of the latest news. It covers the most important news and events, even though not all of them are events. It helps me to read better because there are no interruptions between the stories,” Wong said.
Up-to-date information
Another user, Siew Hoe, expresses similar sentiments.
“It has given me up-to-date information in a format that allows me to read easily like a book,” she said.
In addition to the VI page, Malaysiakini's subscription package offers discounts for disabled individuals, students, and senior citizens.
This aligns with our aim to provide access to underprivileged communities and promote press freedom. You can find details on how to support us in continuing such efforts at the end of this article.
Beyond these readers who rely on our efforts for accessible news, many subscribers have been with us for more than a decade.
Marion Tharsis started subscribing to Malaysiakini over 15 years ago after being drawn to our news portal with the courage of co-founders Premesh Chandran and Steven Gan.
“Though they faced obstacles, they never relented and finally were allowed space to create Malaysiakini.
“Behind the lines, I can imagine the harassment and pressure the staff go through almost daily in your work. I can quip that you are sitting on a bed of thorns, not roses,” he said.
Community engagement
Another devoted reader, Manfredd Ng, began his journey with Malaysiakini in 2007 during the first Bersih movement. He values how Malaysiakini fosters community engagement.
“Readers' comments are the benchmark of good quality media. Malaysiakini gives space for that activity.
“Reading perspectives from some knowledgeable commentators encouraged me to participate. I subscribed to comment and look forward to thumbs-up ratings from readers. It makes my day,” he said.
Manfredd also appreciates the variety of sections available on Malaysiakini.
“Malaysiakini has several interesting and readable sections. They are ahead of its competitors. My favourites are Latest and Yoursay. The first updates me on current events, while the latter provides insights and views from readers. I take pride in my comments selected here.”
Looking towards the future, Manfredd acknowledges the challenges facing independent media but remains confident in Malaysiakini's continued role as a beacon of independent news.
The voices of our readers speak volumes.
Malaysiakini is always more than just a news platform. We engage the community, encourage dialogues, and strive to be a cornerstone of independent journalism.
Thank you for standing with us and believing in the power of truth.
Contact us at +60 17-323 0707 to be our lifetime subscriber, or Subscribe to Malaysiakini today to save 25 percent. You can also gift our subscription to a friend. Alternatively, send your donation here.