UBD Sustainability
"Speak in Silence" Workshop Promotes Sign Language Awareness at UBD
Brunei Darussalam – 9 April 2025 — The Universiti Brunei Darussalam School of Business and Economics (UBDSBE), in collaboration with Jari-Jariku Global, successfully hosted the “Speak in Silence” Sign Language Workshop, an awareness-driven initiative aimed at promoting inclusivity and empowering the public with basic sign language skills.
Organised by 11 Master of Management students under the module BM-5107: Project Management Principles and Practices, and supervised by Dr. Mohamed Syazwan Abd Talib, the event took place on Wednesday, 9 April 2025, at the UBD Start-Up Centre from 2:15 PM to 5:00 PM.
The workshop featured Cikgu Dr Hjh Norbayah (Cikgu Enoi), a certified sign language educator and interpreter, as the lead instructor, supported by a team of nine facilitators from Jari-Jariku. A total of 25 participants from the general public attended the session.
Workshop Objectives:
To raise awareness about the importance of sign language in communication.
To equip participants with foundational sign language skills (alphabets, numbers, greetings, and common phrases).
To foster empathy and understanding toward the deaf and mute communities in Brunei.
To inspire ongoing learning and advocacy for inclusivity.
The interactive workshop included hands-on lessons, receptive tests, and personal stories shared by members of the deaf and mute communities. Participants were also introduced to basic sign vocabulary and given opportunities to engage in role-play scenarios.
Aligning with Global and Institutional Goals
The initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 10: Reduced Inequality
It also aligns with UBDSBE’s mission to empower future-ready leaders through inclusive and innovative education, contributing meaningfully to the Bruneian community.
Impact and Outcomes:
50% of participants reported gaining foundational sign language knowledge.
50% expressed increased awareness and empathy toward the deaf and mute communities.
60% were satisfied with the workshop content and delivery.
80% attendance rate from confirmed participants.
The project was the result of 16 weeks of preparation, beginning in January 2025. Each team member contributed financially and logistically to ensure the success of the workshop. The event was designed not only as an academic project but also as a real contribution to societal awareness.
