| Aziz Idris |
SCUBA-diving can be enjoyed by virtually anyone, regardless of their physical abilities.
Recently, local advocate for the visually impaired, Norali bin Yusof took his first plunge underwater with an introductory scuba dive, transporting him into a new world of weightlessness and unlimited intrigue.
Norali has been overcoming disability challenges since the age of 17 when he lost his sight to severe meningitis.
An adrenaline junkie by heart, he has joined international marathons, swims, cycles and tried indoor skydiving.
But now, he wants to achieve another feat as the first disabled person in Brunei to be a certified diver.
With close supervision from Poni Divers, Norali successfully completed his first introductory dive in a pool.
He has also completed theory sessions to learn about scuba diving equipment and communication methods used for the visually impaired using touch and motion.
Poni Divers is the only dive operator in Brunei offering disabled diving courses, which has been a longtime goal for Managing Director Mohd Tahsin Wong bin Abdullah. He commented, “Disabled diving has been on Poni Divers’ agenda for many years, as we want to make diving an inclusive sport.”
Norali has taken up the challenge and invited other people with disabilities (OKU) to join him. “Despite your limitations, you must overcome obstacles and challenges with a healthy dose of positivity,” he said. “And one way of doing it is to step out of your comfort zone.”
Asked about how it felt to take the first plunge, he replied, “Regardless of impairment… scuba-diving lets you experience the feeling of absolute weightlessness.”
Despite his visual impairment, Norali has studied for a Master’s Degree, received the prestigious Hans Award from King’s College London, and is also a Chevening Scholar.
Meanwhile, Poni Divers’ Business Development Manager Anna binti Aziz explained that disabled diving is a fast-growing activity around the world in recent years. “Poni Divers also helps Brunei join the rapidly growing list of countries that can offer diving to the various communities around the world,” she said.
Poni Divers offers the RAIDAptive Course, which is designed to teach individuals with disabilities to become certified divers with the goal of using certified RAIDaptive Dive Buddies.