Specific plan opened to standardize Macau’s sign language

A special glossary compilation plan has been established in an attempt to standardize Macau’s sign language, the Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) has said.

In response to lawmaker Ngan Iek Hang’s written inquiry, IAS president Hon Wai disclosed that, in order to standardize the city’s sign language, the plan is to construct and explore vocabulary for the local sign language.

Hon added that the plan will officially commence later due to suspension over the past three years of Covid-19. The glossary will be publicly accessible once compiled.

Sign language is a highly location-specific mode of communication. Places sharing the same spoken and written language, such as English, do not have congruent sets of sign language. For example, sign language commonly used in the US is referred to as the American Sign Language, while in Britain it is referred to as the British Sign Language.

In addition, Hon foresees that when the glossary is compiled, it may be used to develop mobile apps or Artificial Intelligence (AI) programs for the convenience of the hearing and speech impaired.

As a result, at this stage, the IAS will primarily concentrate on the development of the glossary, which will also help the education and translation of sign language in Macau.

Ngan has also asked about the government’s efforts in helping the physically disabled to access assistive devices.

Hon said that since the establishment of an assistive device pilot subsidy program in 2021, 55 users have had their subsidies approved, among which 60% were hearing impaired. Most of the funds went to the acquisition of hearing aids and electric wheelchairs.

Citing the Transport Bureau and the Health Bureau, Hon explained that driving test-takers are required to undergo certain medical tests, including but not limited to hearing tests, to ensure they meet the legal health threshold to drive.