Disabled people welcome the announcement in the media by Klang Municipal Council president Abdul Bakir Zin that the MPK is seriously looking into providing parking lots for the disabled in Klang.

However, in order to make such an effort effective and fruitful, the MPK must invite the participation of disabled people in their committee in order to provide their expertise and feedback as to how this can be best achieved.

A disabled friendly parking lot should have the following requirements:

Handicapped people car parks must be placed next or nearest to entrances of buildings with priority given to clinics, grocery shops, banks, post offices, government buildings, places of worship, etc. Where there are steps into buildings or walkways, ramps should also be provided.

The size should approximately be that of two car-park spaces normally given for the able- bodied. This is to allow drivers with wheelchairs sufficient space to get in and out of their vehicles without being obstructed by other parked cars on the left and right.

For those using three of four-wheeled motorcycles, space for wheelchairs should also be considered as many carry these on their bikes.

Wheelchair standup signs and logos should be clearly marked and visible from a distance and from the entrances of parking areas. It is important to come up with a standardised logo which doesn't confuse handicapped drivers.

All disabled parking slots must come with a roof to protect the handicapped from the elements. A hot seat under the scorching sun can cause life-threatening blisters and wounds for paralysed drivers who can't feel them. Umbrellas are no good for wheelchair users who may require at least 15 minutes to get in and out of a car whereas an able-bodied driver can accomplish it in 15 seconds.

Assistance from parking attendants, security guards, etc, should also be provided for those who require help in unloading/loading their wheelchairs from the car boot. An intercom service (such as the ones used to call for help if the parking barrier malfunctions) should also be devised for disabled people. Security cameras are also helpful not only to tell when a handicapped driver arrives but also to serve as an warning system in an emergency or danger.

Prompt action must be taken against non-disabled drivers who pinch disabled parking bays by continuos monitoring, the imposing of hefty fines or by clamping their vehicles. Without strict enforcement, all the efforts to provide the disabled with proper facilities will be futile.

Until all these requirements are fulfilled, all handicapped drivers should be exempted from all parking fees.

This letter is on behalf of the Independent Living and Training Centre, Rawang, Kelab Kecacatan Fizikal Klang, Persatuan Orang Cacat Anggota Melayu Malaysia (Permata), Persatuan Warga Istimewa & Rehabilitasi Anggota K9, Perkhimatan Keluarga Interaksi Orang Kurang Upaya (Kioku) Kuala Lumpur, the Selangor Cheshire Home, Persatuan Orang Cacat Anggota Malaysia, and Bivai Special Dogs for the Handicapped.