The disabled community in Malaysia, long burdened by high telephone charges, are demanding a flat rate for local calls to alleviate the daily inconveniences that they experience.

They said the telephone provides them with enormous social and economic benefits, and remains their "main source and mode of communication with the outside world".

For disabled persons, the telephone also forms the lifeline with family, friends, doctors, rehabilitation experts, physiotherapists, pharmacists and other health service providers.

A memorandum outlining these benefits was submitted in March to the Energy, Communications and Multimedia Ministry, the National Unity and Social Development Ministry and members of parliament.

It was endorsed by 21 organisations for the disabled and 28 individuals with various disabilities.