NGOs call for better accessibility in e-hailing services

 

A group of NGOs want better accessibility measures for disabled people to use e-hailing services.

Group spokesperson Christine Lee said none of the ride-sharing and e-hailing services in Malaysia are wheelchair accessible.

“Accessible public transport and mobility services help promote accessible tourism. The World Health Organisation estimates 1.3 billion people experience moderate to significant disability.

“This represents 16 percent of the world’s population, or one in six of us. If their spouses, children, caregivers, and family members are counted, the number easily doubles.

“While this signifies a huge potential market for travel and tourism, it remains vastly untapped due to the lack of accessible public transport and mobility services as well as accessible tourism facilities and services,” she said in a statement.

Lee singled out van-on-demand service Kumpool.

This comes after Kumpool, on its website, said it could not accommodate wheelchairs, baby strollers, luggage, or large parcels.

Lee asserted that this contravenes Article 27 of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008.

“What is shocking and unacceptable is the fact that the disabled and elderly commuters in wheelchairs and children in strollers and their mothers are being excluded in this initiative.

“Why are these groups being left out and sidelined? Are these groups not part of the community?” she questioned.

Article 27 states that persons with disabilities have the right to access and use public transport services on an equal basis with persons with disabilities.

While Kumpool is a private company, government-owned Prasarana Malaysia Berhad is purportedly working with the former to provide on-demand van services for public transport users.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced last month that a RM50 million allocation under Budget 2024 will be used to purchase the vans and to provide the service.

‘Engage OKUs for input’

Lee called on the minister to use the allocation to purchase wheelchair-accessible vehicles to cater to the diverse needs of the community.

“Kumpool should take the necessary measures by providing wheelchair-accessible vans or vehicles, fitted with universal features, to enable easy access by persons with disabilities, elderly persons in wheelchairs, and children in strollers and their mothers.

“With the advancement of technologies, Kumpool can also look into providing accessible booking apps, real-time travel information and tracking, among others, to enhance their services. Training is necessary to prepare the drivers on how to serve the community better.

“It is important for Kumpool to engage with OKUs and other stakeholders to gather feedback and inputs, in ensuring the services meet their needs and expectations,” she said.

She also urged Kumpool to offer door-to-door service for vulnerable groups, within its service zones, for the commuters’ safety and security. - Mkini