BETTER ACCESS FOR DISABLED AT MRT, LRT STATIONS
Ministry, Prasarana meet to discuss ways to resolve lift, parking and toilet issues
THE Women, Family and Community Development Ministry has discussed with Prasarana Malaysia Bhd how to resolve problems faced by the disabled when taking public transport.
Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Hannah Yeoh said the main problems faced by the disabled (OKU) at Light Rail Transit
(LRT) and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations were lift facilities, misuse of parking and toilets.
She said the ministry brought the problems to Prasarana’s attention.
“The ministry has discussed with Prasarana and brought the issues to their attention. Prasarana is attending to complaints on issues that the OKU community faces.”
Yeoh urged those who had not registered for OKU cards to do so soon.
“We encourage those who have not registered for OKU cards to do so because with the card, you are entitled to benefits and discounts, especially when using public transport.
“We are happy to be working with Prasarana and we are encouraging them to open up more jobs for the disabled.
“We will also work with them to provide disability equality training and disability-related service training next month and in August to spread awareness among their employees,” said Yeoh after chairing a meeting with Prasarana in Bangsar here yesterday.
She said the ministry had asked local authorities to ramp up enforcement efforts on those who abuse OKU parking spots.
“If able-bodied people are parking their vehicles at the OKU spots, then strict enforcement action should be taken.”
Yeoh asked the public to read up and understand the various categories of disabilities.
“Some are learning disabilities, which may not be evident. You may be sharing the same space with them and not realise (their disability). We must be sensitive to their needs. It is our duty to care and look out for them.”