The disabled community has lauded the government's announcement that a flat rate for Internet calls is being considered.

"While not all disabled people can access the Internet, those who do have quickly realised its value. Nevertheless, the current timed rates are a big burden to us," said Anthony Thanasaigan at a press conference today.

He said that a flat-rate will allow the disabled to spend more time on the Internet, increasing their access to society and employment opportunities.

Also at the press conference were representatives from several organisations of the disabled, including Beautiful Gate, Malaysia Spinal Injury Association, Society of Chinese Disabled Persons, YMCA-Club and Dignity & Services.

Thanasaigan said that Mimos, which manages Internet service provider Jaring, has been discussing the issue with them but has expressed the concern that Telekom Malaysia may not agree with the flat-rate proposal.

He urged the Minister of Energy, Telecommunications and Multimedia Leo Moggie to pursue the matter in order to promote greater Internet usage.

Thanasaigan also urged Telekom Malaysia to reconsider the appeal by the disabled community to allow them access to flat-rate telephone calls.

"Since timed local calls were introduced in 1996, our phone bills have sky-rocketed. Some of us have had to disconnect our phones," he said.

Anthony said that without phones, the disabled find it difficult to lead an independent and productive life, and will remain a burden to their families and society.

"Telekom have said that they are willing to give us a RM10 discount. This will not solve our problem. What we are asking for is for the disabled to be allowed to make untimed locals calls to be fixed at 9 sen each," said Thanasaigan.

He said that the service will not be abused as disabled people can be identified by government-issued identity cards certifying their disabled status.