50 years on, disabled still that
Capt Abdul Karim Stuart Russell
Aug 28, 07 3:17pm Adjust font size:
Kindly permit me to reflect my view of the state of the nation and especially the plight of elderly and disabled persons in Malaysia.
In the 50s and 60s, life was more peaceful and simpler; there were fewer motorised vehicles, no arterial highways with spaghetti junctions, no monstrous, distracting advertising signs and very few reckless, maniac drivers. Mobile phones and computers were in their infancy, and, if I may say so, it was a more pleasant Malaysia which had a much more tolerant, caring and genteel society.
Whilst the disabled and the elderly had no special facilities, the low-rise buildings, quiet roads and considerate drivers and the help of family and friends meant they were able to live their lives with a sense of contentment and were fully included in the local community.
We now have skyscrapers, massive factories and other projects, ribbons of highways and roads, a gridlock of motor vehicles, and sadly many citizens, who have, unfortunately, been left behind by the swift pace of development. Due to the rapid pace of change, many Malaysians are now unable to cope with the stresses of a modern way of life. It is unfortunate that some Malaysians now seem to be lacking good manners, culture, good taste, civic consciousness and compassion. They tend to be rude, self-centred, uncaring, inward-looking and narrow minded.
These days, 50 years after Malaysia gained independence, the disabled should be able to be independent, have gainful and fulfilling employment, raise a family and be able to live happy and contented lives without any form of discrimination. The Universal Design concept should be standard, meaning all forms of transport should be safely and easily accessible to everyone, as should all buildings, footpaths, pedestrian crossings and recreational facilities. But as anyone who cares to observe will know, this is certainly not the case.
Even now as we prepare to celebrate the golden anniversary of the birth of Malaysia, new buildings, newly-built and recently renovated footpaths and road crossings, newly-introduced buses and existing commuter trains, intercity trains, taxis, LRT and monorail systems together with their stations, stops and platforms remain largely inaccessible and out of reach to all but the fully able-bodied. The disabled and elderly are still being largely ignored and marginalised.
A lot has been said, and some efforts are now being made to address poor accessibility but these efforts are sometimes uncoordinated, often poorly thought out, and invariably badly implemented. Some are simply just half-hearted attempts, which are doomed to failure.
There is already Malaysian legislation in place which would, if enforced, help to overcome many issues of inaccessibility. Such legislation has been successfully enforced in many countries. If there is political will here, such legislation could be enforced here as well.
Last but not least, the education system must be revamped to include subjects such as civics, disability awareness, citizenship studies, etc. This would inculcate a sense of caring, tolerance, selflessness and service to others besides encouraging broadmindedness, tolerance and compassion.
Businesses also must move out from their comfort zones and learn that it won’t cost all that more or even nothing sometimes to provide properly designed facilities which are safe and accessible to all. In fact, when the estimated 10% to 15% (this percentage will increase due to the aging population and better healthcare) of the population who are elderly and disabled are included and can travel everywhere, the profits of businesses are certain to rise accordingly.
The general public must also reach out to lend a hand to all those who may need help. After all, as we age, fall sick or suffer accidents, each and everyone of us will one day be less able-bodied, less mobile and will be in dire need of facilities which are accessible to all. We will then cherish a caring soul who is willing to lend us a hand.
In Malaysia’s golden year, let us not miss a golden opportunity to make a determined and concerted effort to learn do things right the first time and every time. Let’s have no more ‘tidak apa’ apathy, ‘chin chai’ frivolousness or the ‘I couldn’t care less about anyone else, because I’m alright’ attitude.
The writer is secretary, Support Group for Society for the Blind of Malaysia.
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