For every country I was visiting, in Southeast Asia, I
“How am I going to sign ‘chocolate cake’ in Sign Language?”
This was the question popping up in my mind and, honestly, I was a bit nervous.
After my trip to Haiti and its amazing Deaf Community, I learned that American Sign Language (ASL) and International Sign Language (ISL) were my two next goals. After coming back from that trip I immediately headed to Amazon and bought some ASL books.
Fortunately, I brought them on my trip to Southeast Asia and I was able to study a bit every time I had some time.
Where is the Signing Store located?
This peaceful place is located in the Bangsar Village II, it’s a bit far from the city, but you can easily reach it with public transportation.
Thanks to @deafinitelywanderlust and her hint, I was able to find my way to the first Signing Store in the world! It’s amazing to see big companies like Starbucks are finally giving equal opportunities to Deaf employees.
Hopefully, this will show many other smaller business that hiring Deaf people is good for both sides.
For Deaf people, this means a lot. They can go to the cafe and order whatever they want, without any communication barriers and no bias.
All the employees that I met, were super happy to finally be in a place where they could improve, personally and professionally.
Obviously, for Hearing people this is equally good! We are all getting closer to the Deaf Community, learning a bit of Sign Language and spread the word. After all, Deaf people can do anything! 😉
(Finally) Getting my chocolate cake
In the end, getting my chocolate cake was the easiest part. The guys on duties were so friendly! I wanted to stay there all day and sign with them, but I’ll have to study more for this!
They were surprised two Hearing people were so interested in the Store! Actually, we traveled all the way from the city center just to get there. Just one week earlier another Italian couple was there, and
They taught me the signs for Kuala Lumpur and for Malaysia (which you can find here) and they’re more than happy to teach you some finger spelling and other useful words.
What I found special about this Community, is the ability to make you feel welcome at any time. They are kind and peaceful.
The shopping mall where the Starbucks is located, is usually crowded and noisy, however when you step in the Store, everything is quite and you can truly unwind!
Enjoy your cake!
Sonia 🙂
