IT was a beautiful day for those from Beautiful Gate Foundation when they received early Christmas gifts from Santa.
The foundation for the disabled received a total of 35 wheelchairs, seven three-wheeled motorcycles, seven medical cushions, five hearing aids, a computer and cash totalling RM128,000 from funds raised during a recent charity campaign.
Women, Family and Community Development Ministry parliamentary secretary Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun presented the gifts to those in need after launching the Dong Zhi and Christmas 2006 programme at Atria shopping Centre in Petaling Jaya, recently.
“We hope that these gifts would help lessen the burden faced by the disabled and I would like assure them that there is going to be more of such activities to help the disabled lead normal lives,” she said.
Chew said her community service in centre in PJ Utara together with the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry and Beautiful Gate Foundation have organised various activities such as free eye checks, hair cut, Chinese traditional healing and other campaigns to improve the disabled community's quality of life.
Chew (centre) distributing Christmas gifts to the disabled.
Source :
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/12/30/central/16408509&sec=central
周美芬（前排坐者左三）呼吁殘障人士們踴躍出席“生命的禮物—人圓夢圓冬至及聖誕節聯歡會”，響應殘障人士註冊運動。前排左起為黃保國、謝秀貞、陳艷珍、林安和及八打靈衛生處代表蘇瑪雅。（八打靈再也訊）婦女、家庭及社會發展部政務次長拿汀巴杜卡周美芬指出，大馬只有約17萬名殘障人士向該部註冊。
她說，根據聯合國統計，各國至少有1至10%的殘障人口，若我國以2600萬人口計算，1%就相等於26萬人，意味尚有約9萬名殘障人士未註冊。
22日辦人圓夢圓聯歡會
她說，為了推動殘障人士的註冊運動，該部八打靈北區社會福利發展理事會將於12月22日（週五）下午1時30分在奧迪雅購物中心舉辦“生命的禮物——人圓夢圓冬至及聖誕節聯歡會”，以呼吁及鼓勵更多弱勢群體向該部註冊。
“政府鼓勵殘障人士登記主要是為掌握他們的資料，讓政府為他們擬定及策劃可改善弱勢群體的政策。”
聯歡會的聯辦單位包括星洲日報、美門殘障關懷基金會和馬華八打靈再也婦女組。
也是八打靈北區國會議員的周美芬也呼吁商家熱心義善，親臨聯歡會派發紅包給弱勢群體、孤兒及樂齡人士。
陳艷珍：聯歡會尚欠19禮物吁公眾慷慨解囊助圓夢
籌委會主席陳艷珍在新聞發佈會上指出，聯歡會必須籌獲111份“生命的禮物”以贈送給弱勢群體，目前尚欠19份禮物，包括4份（價值5000令吉）電子課程教育費用、9份（價值2000令吉）的謀生電腦及打印機及6份（價值5千300令吉）三輪電單車。
鑒此，她呼吁熱心的公眾人士及商家慷慨解囊，讓殘障人士夢想成真。
美門殘障關懷基金會總幹事謝秀貞說，一些殘障人士急需殘障補助儀器以克服行動不便問題及謀生，因此希望善心人士可幫助殘障人士圓夢，同時也促請殘障人士勇敢站出來，踴躍響應政府的註冊活動。
設特別櫃檯助申請貸款
她補充，當天福利部在會場設立特別櫃檯，以協助殘障人士申請貸款及殘障補助儀器，另外也安排翻譯員為面對語言障礙的殘障人士提供翻譯及咨詢。
受邀團體包括關懷之家、愛心老人與殘障人士收容中心、美嘉園殘障中心、雙溪威老人院、希望之家及孤兒院等。
出席者包括星洲日報副業務促進部經理林安和、馬來西亞中醫師暨針灸聯合總會秘書長黃保國、永增健康自然館高級執行員何怡潔等。 （星洲日報‧2006/12/19）
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200612191048&data=scnews&spid=183451
KUALA LUMPUR: Any public transportation system for the disabled should be sustainable, said Wanita MCA chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen.
She cited how the public transportation system in Hong Kong allowed the disabled to travel with ease and without charge.
She said the Beautiful Gate Foundation for the Disabled had proposed a pilot public transportation project in Klang Valley for the disabled.
However, the Government wanted such a project to be sustainable, she said.
“We need the community to come out and propose because they know best what their needs are,” she told reporters after giving away Christmas presents to 41 disabled people under the MCA's Project Care Gift of Life programme.
Dr Ng urged the disabled to register with the Welfare Department in their respective states so that the Government could allocate funds accordingly.
“If you don’t register with us, we don’t know how to plan the budget that includes the disabled,” said Dr Ng, who is Deputy Finance Minister.
Wanita MCA helped raise funds for the Gift of Life programme to purchase nine motorised wheelchairs, 12 three-wheel motorcycles and 20 medical cushions worth RM168,000.
The sponsors included Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Bhd, Metrojaya Bhd, Kuala Lumpur Pavilion Sdn Bhd, Malaysian Charity Draw, Oriental Group of Restaurants and Tanjung Balai Quarry Sdn Bhd.
Dr Ng also witnessed the presentation of a cheque of RM10,000 from Malaysian Charity Draw to Pusat Kebajikan Good Shepherd.
Source : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/12/15/nation/16323729&sec=nation
41殘友獲輔助器材（吉隆坡訊）在“生命的禮物”關懷殘障醒覺運動中，共有41名殘障人士獲得殘障輔助器材，讓他們喜出望外，感動得眼泛淚珠。
這項運動由馬華婦女組、美門殘障關懷基金會及終生學習委員會聯辦，通過向公眾人士徵求殘障輔助器材，以協助殘障人士自力更生。
馬華婦女組主席拿督黃燕燕今日（週四，12月14日）表示，這次馬華婦女組成功籌獲16萬8000令吉，包括9架電動輪椅、12架三輪電單車及20個護臀坐墊。
她在馬華總部舉辦“生命的禮物”關懷殘障醒覺運動移交儀式後的新聞發佈會上表示，雖然這次所殘障人士器材的受惠者，只達到名單中的30%人，但這運動將持續，因此有興趣贊助者，可聯絡馬華婦女組秘書處（03-21618044）。
謝秀貞：改善生活素質
輔助器材助自立
美門殘障關懷基金會總幹事謝秀貞指出，她瞭解若這些殘障人士無法獲得合適的殘障輔助器，他們將無法自立，導致他們越來越自卑，而且需要依靠家人。
“我明白這些輔助器材不但可改善殘障人士的生活素質，更可協助他們自立更生。他們也不想成為家人的負擔”
她指出，那些獲得“生命禮物”的殘障人士，明天就可以開始新生活，並邁向新方向。
出席者包括馬華婦女組副主席拿督曾玉英、副總秘書黃素珠、中委藍賽珍、福利部主任拿汀李瑞珍、大馬標準渣打銀行首席執行員朱利安、Metrojaya主席拿督阿末、大馬慈善幸運抽獎（Malaysian Charity Draw）理事法蒂拉、贊助者何耀康、葉中興等。 （星洲日報‧2006/12/14）
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200612141410&data=scnews&spid=184017
By VIVIENNE PAL
Photos by LOW LAY PHONPEOPLE with disabilities should go to the Credit Guarantee Corporation (CGC) if they require help to start their own businesses.
Kelana Jaya MP Loh Seng Kok said there were many avenues, aside from allowances by the Government, offered to the disabled, allowing them the opportunity to lead independent lives.
“The Welfare Department also offers a grant of RM2,700 for members of the disabled community who want to start small businesses,” said Loh during the Gift of Life free blood test activity organised by Beautiful Gate Foundation for the Disabled at Summit USJ shopping centre recently.
According to statistics cited by Loh, the total number of disabled people registered with the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry stands at 170,445 while there are some 22,335 registered in Selangor alone.
Loh (right) having a word with Gan Poh Poh after her blood test while her daughter Chow Swook Lee (left) looks on.
“Those who are not registered should come forward and register themselves because it allows the ministry to plan a budget for their benefit, and it helps people in general to be more cognizant of the needs of the disabled,” said Loh, who pledged five lightweight wheelchairs to the foundation that day.
He said he would raise the issue of allowing disabled motorists vehicle stickers that waived parking fees, request that a certain amount of pasar malam licences be set aside for the disabled seeking to set up stalls, as well as lobby for a more disabled-friendly Kelana Jaya in the next Parliament meeting and monthly Petaling district gathering.
At the blood drive, some 125 disabled people were given free blood tests sponsored by Princess Shoe & Handbag Centre Sdn Bhd.
This is the second time the local shoe and bag company has sponsored the event. In the first event last year, the company sponsored free blood tests for 75 disabled people.
According to Beautiful Gate executive director Sia Siew Chin, the event was part of the Gift of Life campaign that is being held throughout December.
“We want to drive home the importance of health examinations among the disabled, and that blood screening is crucial,” said Sia.
She added that Beautiful Gate was also seeking help in obtaining lightweight and motorised wheelchairs, three-wheel motorcycles, medical cushions and educational scholarships as these helped the disabled to lead more independent lives.
Source : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/12/13/central/16262219&sec=central
PETALING JAYA: The disabled are encouraged to continue acquiring new skills that will give them a better chance to join the corporate sector.
Datin Seri Wendy Ong, the wife of Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, called on them to continue acquiring different skills in line with MCA’s lifelong learning programme.
Presenting certificates to 30 disabled people who completed their computer and handphone repair courses recently, she said: “This is a very good start for career advancement, especially those who want to join the corporate sector. Don’t stop here. Continue to learn more.”
CHIT-CHAT: Wendy (third from left) talking with Chan Hwee Lee and other disabled people after the certificate presentation ceremony at Atria Shopping Centre in Petaling Jaya on Saturday.
The recipients from the Beautiful Gate Foundation underwent a four-month handphone-repair course, a three-month Microsoft Excel course, a six-month Microsoft Access course and a three-month Microsoft Office advanced course.
Wendy said the public should learn from the disabled people of the foundation who had helped in recycling campaigns organised by the Housing and Local Government Ministry.
“We know Beautiful Gate through the many recycling campaigns. Despite your disability, you still come forward to help the society. We should all learn from you,” she said.
She urged the corporate sector to come forward to help contribute towards disabled people.
She commended SP Setia Foundation for donating 10 computers to Beautiful Gate, making it possible for the disabled people to acquire IT skills.
Source : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/12/10/nation/16279213&sec=nation
By SALINA KHALIDIT was a rare sight of the able-bodied walking beside the disabled. Some even took turn to push the wheelchairs, helping the disabled to complete the 1.5km distance while exchanging greetings with the onlookers.
That was what happened recently during the walk and wheelathon at SS2 Cares Carnival.
Some able-bodied participants took turns pushing the wheelchair-bound during the 1.5km wheelathon.
It was held in conjunction with the International Day of Disabled Persons celebrated also recently celebrated.
The event attracted about 100 participants of able-bodied and disabled.
Carnival organising committee chairman Datuk Lim Choon Kin flagged them off at 9am in front of SS2 Urban Park.
Although those on the wheelchairs could propel themselves, the able-bodied participants lent a helping hand in pushing them along the way.
Since it was not a race, all participants took time knowing each other throughout the journey to the finishing line.
Roslan getting his blood pressure checked Lim (standing, left) and MBPJ secretary Zulkepli Ahmad look on.
“The main objective of the event is to boost public awareness on the need of these disabled people.
“We also want to bring the able-bodied and the disabled closer through events like this,” said Lim who is also the Damansara Utama state assemblyman.
He added that it is the first a wheelathon organised together with the walkathon, since the International Day of Disabled Persons has been celebrated at the local authority level for the past two years.
This is the third year the carnival is being held in Petaling Jaya.
Other activities during the half-day carnival are colouring competition for the children, health check and sales of items produced by the handicapped community.
Guests were also entertained by performances by the local community.
In his speech, Petaling Jaya mayor Mohamad Roslan Sakiman congratulated the local community for organising such event.
He added that the city council would continue providing a more accessible environment for the disabled community.
Source : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/12/9/central/16216335&sec=central
KUALA LUMPUR: In the spirit of the Christmas season, Wanita MCA and the Beautiful Gate Foundation for the Disabled will jointly organise a fundraising event – Gift of Life.
“The Gift of Life is in line with Wanita MCA’s Project Care led by our movement chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen,” said Datin Rosalind Lee, who is the organising committee chairman.
Lee said the best present for the disabled was the gift of mobility – such as a three-wheeled motorcycle, motorised wheelchair or detachable wheelchair.
Based on statistics from the Welfare Department, she said there were about 260,000 disabled nationwide but only 17,000 had registered with the department.
“We have to be sensitive towards the disabled and their needs,” she said.
Urging the public to be generous, Lee said any contribution would be meaningful, as the money would be used to present the disabled with a gift of kindness that would help transform their lifestyle.
“These gifts provide mobility to enable them to secure a job, improve their life condition and create opportunities for them to lead an independent life.
“And it will help them develop their self-esteem and strengthen their willpower to live,” she told a press conference at Wisma MCA here.
Lee said there would be a Gift of Life presentation on Dec 14 to give out Christmas presents to the disabled.
All donations are tax exempt.
For more information on the event, contact the foundation at 03-7873 6579, 019-219 8440 or Wanita MCA at 03-2161 8044 ext 105.
Source : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/12/7/nation/16232913&sec=nation
徵求殘障輔助器材（吉隆坡訊）這個聖誕節，公眾可以通過贊助殘障輔助器材，把“生命的禮物”化作改變殘障朋友生命的祝福，協助他們過自立生活。
這項由馬華婦女組關懷社會計劃與美門殘障關懷基金會舉辦的“生命的禮物”關懷殘障醒覺運動，通過向公眾人士徵求101份殘障輔助器材，協助殘障人士自力更生，重拾生命的尊嚴。
美門殘障關懷基金會總干事謝秀貞今日（週二，12月5日）在馬華總部召開的新聞發佈會上表示，殘障人士並非只是面對身體上的缺陷，由於沒有合適的殘障輔助器，他們不得不依靠別人，無法自立自理使他們越來越自卑。
“殘障輔助器材包括適合的輪椅、改裝電單車、助聽器、電腦、護臀坐墊等都能為殘障人士的生命帶來巨大的改變，所以我們稱之為‘生命的禮物’。”
“生命的禮物”關懷殘障醒覺運動籌委會主席拿汀李瑞珍指出，馬華全國婦女組主席拿督黃燕燕將擔任此項活動的大會主席，並呼籲社會人士收起異樣眼光，伸出援手幫助殘障朋友過自立生活。
有意贊助者，請在12月12日之前聯絡美門殘障關懷基金會03-78736579、或馬華婦女組秘書處03-21618044。
公眾可以個人或集合他人，送出以下禮物：
●電動輪椅（價格：每輛1萬令吉、所需數量：13部）
●護臀坐墊（價格：每部2000令吉、所需數量：20個）
●電子課程教育費用（價格：每位5000令吉、所需數量：5位） （星洲日報‧2006/12/05）
“您的慷慨和愛心能協助我們重新自立”，後排右2起：多元化終身學習中心（MPTC）副主任藍賽珍、馬華全國婦女組副總秘書黃素珠、李瑞珍、陳艷珍、MPTC委員葉金蘭和陳麗玲。
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200612051029&data=scnews&spid=184017
Being born with a disability is bad enough, but when one is instantly crippled by an illness or accident, the effect can be quite traumatic. RASHVINJEET S. BEDI discovers how four such persons got back on their feet.WHENEVER Lee Pei Sun feels lonely, she takes a picture of her two sons from her wallet and looks at it. Divorced three years ago, Lee gets to see them once a week.
Lee, 28, suffers from Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA), a condition that progressively results in unsteady motion of the body. The disease began to attack her body after the birth of her first son, and now she moves about in a wheelchair and her speech is slurred.
Phua Gin Chu, 24, was one month away from getting her taekwondo black belt when she was admitted to hospital with excruciating back pain. Doctors could not determine the cause of her pain, which left her paralysed from waist down.
Krishnan Sivasankaran, 32, lost one leg in a motorcycle accident. The former security guard used to play in goal for a local football team.
COPING WITH CHANGES: Life is not the same anymore for (from left) Phua, Lim and Lee of The Beautiful Gate Foundation.
This is the world of the instant disabled, where a person loses his or her ability to perform routine tasks in one moment. Accepting that disability is not the easiest of tasks.
“I was very low on self esteem and confidence. Even when my friends came to visit, I would not see them. I preferred to cry alone in my room,” said Phua who lost her ability to walk when she was 16. Phua, who is from Sekinchan, was a prefect, played handball and was active in extra-curricular activities.
Depression set in and Phua slit her wrist. Fortunately, she was sent to the hospital in time.
“The doctor told me there were others who were worse off than me. I was told some of them still could draw with their mouth,” she recalled.
Phua, however, did not want to put herself into anyone else’s shoes. “I felt people’s love and support, but I couldn’t accept it. I didn’t want to be pitied,” she said.
After the divorce, Lee went to live at the Beautiful Gate Foundation in Petaling Jaya, a home for disabled people, at the recommendation of a friend. That was three years ago. Back then, any mention of her husband and two sons would set her crying. She also felt like ending her life.
“Although I felt dead inside, committing suicide was not an option because of my sons,” she said.
Lim Kee Loon, 24, was involved in a motorcycle accident in Kuala Lumpur that fractured his neck, ribs, hands and legs. His spinal cord was damaged as well and this affected everything from the chest down. He spent six months in the hospital before going back to his hometown of Kuantan, Pahang.
He occupied his time by watching television, going to hospital and surfing the Internet. He was able to type, although at a very slow pace.
While Lim was positive, his parents could not accept his disability.
“My mother cried every day. It was as if she had lost her son,” said Lim who was at that time two months away from completing his diploma in automotive engineering.
Lim could not bear to see his parents being stressed out and decided to go and live at Beautiful Gate.
“My parents were old anyway and I had to think of the future. I had to learn to be independent,” he said.
As can be seen from these life stories, it takes a while for the instant disabled to accept their condition. This has a lot to do with willpower and learning from others.
Phua’s life changed when she read a book by Taiwanese writer Xing Lin Zi who suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and had been confined to a wheelchair since she was 12.
“The book gave me confidence and inspiration. It was then that I realised life is important,” she said.
With encouragement from her headmaster and teachers, Phua went back to school. With time on her hands, Phua could concentrate on her studies and eventually scored a grade one in the SPM examinations.
She went on to get an advanced diploma in computing in a local college, whereas some of her peers dropped out. Phua also represented the country in table tennis at the 2002 Manchester and 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games.
“Some of my friends tell me that I encourage them. Life is a struggle till the end. We are learning all the time,” said Phua who heads the employment department at Beautiful Gate.
The ever-smiling Lee, meanwhile, has found a place to call home.
“I found God’s love here. I smile a lot because it brings warmth,” said Lee who reads a lot now.
Lim is doing a course in multimedia and hopes to be a programmer when he finishes.
Krishnan did that by turning to sports to occupy his time. He spent two depressed years at home before meeting disabled athlete Law King Khiew who taught him to exercise.
Krishnan took up powerlifting and finished fourth at the 2002 Busan Fespic Games with a personal best bench press of 90kg.
“Your body might be disabled, but your mind is not. Go out and meet other people. Don’t let it (mind) be disabled,” said Krishnan.
He also enrolled himself in an electronics course at the Rehabilitation and Industrial Training Centre (PLPP) in Bangi.
Krishnan now repairs wheelchairs for a living and he enjoys his work, which requires him to travel around the Klang Valley.
The International Day of Disabled Persons (IDD)
TODAY is International Day of Disabled Persons. Observed since 1990, this day promotes an understanding of disability issues and mobilises support for the dignity, rights and the well being of a disabled person. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.
Communities all over the world focus on measures to implement international norms and standards related to disabled persons.
This year’s theme for the IDD is “E-Accessibility”. Through its efforts, and collaboration with others, the United Nations aims to raise appreciation among Governments, private entities and the public of the significant benefits to disabled persons and societies when they are empowered with increased access to information technology.
Source:
http://www.un.org/
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/12/3/focus/16204123&sec=focus
聖誕禮物送殘友（八打靈再也訊）你知道再多2天，即12月3日是甚麼日子嗎？如果展開一項全國性的民意問卷調查，相信知道的人並不多。
答案是“國際殘疾人日” (International Day of Disabled Persons)，而這個日子今年已邁入第14年了。
“國際殘疾人日”是聯合國在1992年10月14日舉行的第47屆大會，通過議決案制訂下來的日子。
如果你是充滿愛心的人，卻不曉得這個日子，請別自責，因為你可以趁著聖誕節的來臨，變身成為“聖誕老人”，配合殘疾日和聖誕節的來臨，向殘障朋友大派“聖誕禮物”！
你知道嗎？許多殘障朋友都期盼你來當“聖誕老人”，送出一份可以改變他們生命的禮物。
助殘友自立養家
為了確保這些聖誕禮物都是殘障人真正需要的，美門殘障關懷中心已向全國附屬的美門中心收集資料，確定有多少位殘障朋友想收到何種“聖誕禮物”；算一算，這些聖誕禮物共有101份呢！
這些禮物，或許是一部適合的輪椅、一輛改裝的電單車、一個助聽機，更或許是一部可以讓他在家工作的電腦。
一旦收到這些禮物後，將有可能對殘障朋友的生命帶來巨大的改變，使他們可以自力更生，甚至養家活口，重拾生命的尊嚴。
謝秀貞：國際殘疾人日被忽略
美門殘障關懷中心總幹事謝秀貞坦言，很少人知道何謂“國際殘疾人日”，這與宣傳不足有關，而政府也未固定在“123”這一天舉辦慶祝活動。
她對國人不曉得週五（1日）是國際殘疾人日一事感到悲哀和被忽略，因為聯合國制定這個日子是希望各成員國和有關組織繼續開展持續有效的活動，以改善殘疾人的狀況。
探討殘障人問題
5日辦研討會慶殘疾人日
美門殘障關懷中心總幹事謝秀貞說，今年“國際殘疾人日”的慶典落在12月5日（星期二），去年的慶典是拖到今年2月份才進行。今年的慶祝地點是在成功時代廣場，與往年有別的是以研討會的形式出現。
“政府今年將邀請日本著名的男殘障人Yutaka Takamine擔任主講人，他曾在聯合國社會經濟組附設在泰國的辦事處服務。我覺得這項研討會很有意義，可以探討我們面對的各種問題。”
謝秀貞：殘疾人日應廣泛宣傳
謝秀貞也直言，國際殘疾人日不像國慶日般，獲得大規模的慶祝。它也不像12月1日的世界愛滋病日一樣，受到民間廣泛的關注。
據瞭解，世界衛生組織（WHO）已明文規定每年的12月1日為國際愛滋日。
“一個正常的人在年輕或年老時，可能也會遇上肢體上的缺陷問題，如交通意外、工業意外、生產問題、不知名的奇難雜症等，所以我認為‘國際殘疾人日’這個日子應該被廣泛宣傳，以喚起全民的醒覺意識。”
她說，無障礙環境的不夠完善，使到許多殘障人士不能過正常的生活，身心靈皆受創傷。
她表示，政府通常會在“國際殘疾人日”這一天，安排場合或設晚宴，通過頒發獎牌的方式來褒揚殘障人士，每次都會邀請殘障團體前往聚會。
海外地區廣泛慶祝
她說，在海外許多國家和區域，如台灣、香港和中國，“國際殘疾人日”是廣泛被慶祝的節日。
“我曾在台灣看過一項由台灣演藝圈知名甘草演員孫越帶動的國際殘疾人日慶典，那是在公園內舉行，搞得很大規模，就像Fun Fair（遊樂場）一樣。”
她說，她期望有朝一日，我國的殘疾人日會變成國人非常熟悉的節日，因為那一天的來臨，意味著將使殘障人與正常人融合在一起，進行各種互動，而非如今天般那麼令人感到陌生。
法令規定須設立
發展商忽略殘障人設施
大馬政府在1994年通過修正新的建築物法令，規定所有新的建築物都必須設有殘障人設施，而舊的建築物必須加以裝修成具備殘障人設施，可是目前很多發展商都忽略了這一點。
美門殘障關懷中心總幹事謝秀貞指出，我國若要發展到如先進國一樣，擁有完善的殘障設施，政府官員的思維方式和態度行為是關鍵因素，而這也胥視私人領域是否全力配合。
一些私人機構拒聘殘障人
她說，人力資源部屬下有一個協助殘障人士的工作委員會，而令她感到遺憾的是，去年她曾聽說有些殘障人士被首相署公共服務局安排到私人機構服務，卻被私人機構的要員拒絕，理由是“沒有殘障人設施，不方便活動”。
“這就是我所聽到的，人們會用一百個理由來拒絕，而不是以一百個理由來解決問題。我覺得我們需要不斷去推動殘障人的福利，才能看到績效。”
殘障人士法令未落實
謝秀貞說，數個本地殘障團體曾在2004年向政府反映要通過殘障人士法令的心願，以提昇殘障人的教育水平、制造工作機會及增設殘障人公共設施等，雖然這已獲福利部接納及提呈草案，然而迄今仍未落實。
她希望這項法令很快被提出，並為殘障人帶來好消息，而不是被無期限的展延。
希望許多地方都有無障礙設施
她感謝八打靈市議會於2003年為美門殘障關懷中心設立無障礙通道，讓她及同伴們可以從美門的門口直接前往SS2；“不過只有我們這裡有這種設施是不足夠的，我們希望城市許多地方都有無障礙設施，包括交通工具的殘障便利。”
她表示，今年10月間，美門殘障關懷中心與多個殘障團體配合，在孟沙展開殘障人和平請願運動，要求政府和有關當局關注公共交通未設有殘障設施的問題。
送一份《生命的禮物》
助殘障朋友實現心願
你可以化身為聖誕老人送出《生命的禮物》（Gift Of Life）。
你可以按照個人的能力與感動，或者集合多人的力量，透過美門殘障關懷基金，送出一件你和你家人或朋友想要送出的禮物。
送聖誕禮物步驟
贈送聖誕禮物給美門殘障關懷中心（簡稱美門）的步驟如下：
1）選擇一份你要送出的禮物，填妥表格及寄上支票。
2）美門將安排適合的殘障同胞成為禮物的受惠者。
3）美門將寄上免稅收據及邀請卡，以邀請你出席禮物捐贈典禮。
4）美門的家人或朋友出席禮物捐贈典禮，以親手將你的祝福交在受惠的殘障者手上。
任何有關詢問，可聯絡美門殘障關懷基金會潘銀珠，電話是03-7873 6579、7875 8609、019-2198440；傳真電話：03-78762686
地址是：
Beautiful Gate Foundation For The Disabled,
No.29, SS 2/59,47300 P.J., Selangor.Malaysia.
網址：
http://beautifulgate.my.diip.net
http://www.beautifulgate.org.my
1）助聽器（Hearing Aid）
你的禮物不但能把美妙的聲音帶進殘障人的世界，也可以為他們建立與社會溝通的橋樑。
價格：每對2300令吉
所需數量：5對
2）電子課程教育費用（Electrical Diploma Tuition Fees）
你的禮物可以讓學成的殘障者從事電子工作，為自己的生活打拼。
價格：每位5000令吉
所需數量：5位
3）謀生電腦與打印機（Computer And Printer）
一部適合的電腦和打印機，可讓殘障者在家工作，並讓嚴重殘障的孩子得到妥善的關懷。
價格：每部2000令吉
所需數量：10部
4）護臀坐墊（Medical Cushion）
護臀坐墊能保護殘障者容易壓傷及潰爛的臀部，也能使他們擁有正常的作息，過正常的生活。
價格：每部2000令吉
所需數量：20個
5）可拆式輕型輪椅（Detachable Wheelchair）
你的禮物，可以幫助他們走進學校、接受教育、走向未來……
價格：每部1500令吉
所需數量：35部
6）三輪電單車（Three-Wheeled Motorcycle）
一輛經過改裝的三輪電單車，不但可以幫助殘障父母開創自己的小生意，一盡為人父母的責任。
價格：每輛5300令吉
所需數量：23輛
7）電動輪椅（Motorised Wheelchair）
電動輪椅可以讓殘障者只用一根手指就能控制前進的方向，為他們的生命打開一條嶄新的道路，奔向自由。
價格：1萬令吉
所需數量：13部 （星洲日報／大都會‧2006/12/01）
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200612010467&data=scnews&spid=184017
1令吉1卡助殘友（八打靈再也訊）“1令吉1卡，資助殘友打造明天！”
星洲基金會特別推出適合各種喜慶和節日寄送祝福的“化礙為愛卡”，公眾可通過國內殘障團體購買此卡，以協助殘障團體籌募基金。
星洲基金信托人兼星洲媒體集團總編輯蕭依釗今日（週五，11月17日）表示，配合佳節的來臨，星洲基金會推出多款“化礙為愛卡”，除了協助國內殘障團體外，也為親友帶來窩心的祝福。
設計充滿大馬色彩
她週五在“化礙為愛卡”推介禮上表示，“化礙為愛卡”的設計充滿大馬色彩，因此各族人士也歡迎購買此卡。
“我們在設計“化礙為愛卡”時，是以各族佳節為主題，此外我們也設計其他款式的賀卡，讓公眾在父親節、母親節或探望病人時獻上祝福。”
蕭依釗指出，“化礙為愛卡”一共包含兩套各6張的賀卡。星洲媒體只酌收印刷成本。其他費用如制作費、設計費用和版權等一律不收取，所得悉數歸殘友組織。
她對“化礙為愛卡”抱著樂觀的態度，因為她認為，經過國內殘障團體推銷後，“化礙為愛卡”將成為佳節的標誌。
喚醒社會關懷殘障人
“在電子卡逐漸普遍的時代，如果公眾收到這些卡片，他們將有特別的感覺。”
她強調，星洲基金會推出“化礙為愛卡”協助殘障人士，也通過此卡讓公眾瞭解另一層意義。
“我們希望通過“化礙為愛卡”喚醒社會人士關注殘障朋友的處境，並極力協助他們。”
出席推介禮者包括星洲基金會高級經理湯琇珺、經理黃建珠、星洲日報文教部副主任葉偉章、華人殘障協會總秘書廖志雄、雙福殘障自強發展協會公關廖春蓮、代總幹事陳建孝、友善城市活動主任鄭明仁及美門殘障關懷中心賬目管理劉美莉。 （星洲日報‧2006/11/17）
蕭依釗（後排右2）為“化礙為愛卡”主持推介禮。後排左起：楊志維及黃建珠；後排右：湯琇珺；前排左起：陳建孝、廖春蓮、鄭明仁、廖志雄及劉美莉。
星洲基金會推出多款“化礙為愛卡”，讓公眾協助殘友外，也為親友獻上佳節祝福。
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200611170803&data=scnews&spid=184456
By CHRISTINA TANBEING a disabled, Lee Yew Hoe never expected to have the ability to lend a hand to others, especially to those who share the same faith as he does.
“It is the most joyous thing I have ever had, I’m blessed with the strength to guide and help others even though I’m wheelchair-bound,” said the 34-year-old Beautiful Gate Foundation For The Disabled coordinator based in Klang.
Lee (left) and Tan (right) look on as one of the centre’s residents carries out skills training
Growing up in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Lee received much care and love from his parents and siblings, as they always tried to be by his side.
Lee said his family and friends never treated him as disabled and always encouraged and guided him to live a normal life, including doing household chores and attending normal schools.
After leaving high school, Lee felt it was the time for him to be independent and ventured to Petaling Jaya to work as a clerk in a training company.
In 2004, he met Sia Siew Chin, the founder of the foundation, in a Methodist Church in Kuala Lumpur, where he was invited to join the foundation and help out at the main centre located in Petaling Jaya.
“I agreed right away because it was a more meaningful task.
“Besides, opening my heart to more people by meeting more friends, this job has given me great satisfaction,” he said.
A lot of things for the new centre has been made possible through the help of generous sponsors.
Lee said he was posted to a new centre in Taman Chi Liung, Klang, the sixth centre after Petaling Jaya (Selangor), Kepong (Kuala Lumpur), Kampar (Perak), Seremban (Negeri Sembilan) and Malacca for the physically disabled in the area.
He was assigned the task of coordinator to take care of the welfare of the disabled staying at the new centre, playing the role of counsellor and supporter.
“It is great to see them able to face the world again. Some have learnt to live independently and have gotten jobs and even started families of their own,” said Lee.
Lee added that the centre in Klang was officially opened on Oct 11, explaining that those interested in joining the foundation’s programmes were welcome, with priority given to Klang residents.
Tan Auw Hock, the special assistant to Klang MP Datin Paduka Dr Tan Yee Kew, who was involved in the coordinating and setting up of the centre, said he had received a numerous calls from people who were interested in the training provided by the foundation.
“I decided to approach Beautiful Gate as it is known for providing training in surviving skills and self-development skills for the disabled,” he said.
It took him two months to plan and look for donors for the project.
“Fortunately, there are many kind-hearted and helpful people in town. We managed to get hold of the premises, contractors for renovation works and others to help us without charges,” he said.
The new centre is located in a double-storey corner house with five bedrooms at Lebuh Turi, Taman Chi Liung.
The centre can house 15 people and accommodate 30 people for daytime training programmes, including computer skills training.
The foundation also appealed for public donations, Lee said, adding that the centre also needed a van to ferry the disabled ones and volunteers, said Lee.
“I hope the members of public could help us and involve themselves voluntarily,” he said.
The public can also donate old newspapers, cardboard, plastic bottles and metals to the centre.
For donations, contact the centre at 03-3373 6094 or 016-318 9615.
Source : http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/11/7/central/15929294&sec=central
By THOMAS TANNewsdesk@thestar.com.myMALACCA: Ten-year-old wheelchair-bound Poon Pau Yee had to stop schooling last year as there was no one to send her to school.
Moreover, her school did not have facilities for the disabled.
Her father, an express bus driver, only sees her at home in Port Dickson a few times in a month due to his job commitment while her two elder siblings attend school on week days and do part-time jobs on weekends.
“My best friend is the television set at home,” said Pau Yee, who became wheelchair bound after she was struck by high fever at the age of five. Her mother had since passed away.
Low teaching Pau Yee how to use a computer at the Beautiful Gate Foundation centre in Taman Merdeka Jaya, Malacca, recently.
It was a neighbour who brought food for her regularly.
However, Pau Yee’s gloomy days ended when her aunt from Bukit Beruang here told her father about the Beautiful Gate Foundation's centre for the disabled in Malacca.
Pau Yee has been living at the centre in Taman Merdeka Jaya since April.
She now looks toward attending school again in January.
“I’m happy to be here knowing that someone will be sending me to school soon,” said Pau Yee, who is tutored by Janet Low and Mark Chew, a disabled couple who work for the foundation.
Pau Yee will attend primary six at SK Gangsa, a special children's school at Durian Tunggal in January.
Beautiful Gate Foundation here offers training on survival for the disabled, self-development skills, and computer and bakery classes at its single-storey terrace house.
It is the fifth centre after Petaling Jaya (Selangor), Kepong (Kuala Lumpur), Kampar (Perak) and Seremban (Negri Sembilan) set up by the foundation.
Foundation chairman Low How Juan said the Malacca centre needed volunteers and drivers to help in transporting the disabled in a van and also a computer expert to conduct computer classes at the centre.
“A few students from Multimedia University have volunteered to give computer lessons.
“But we cannot rely on them totally as they have classes to attend,” said Low.
Depending on public donations, the centre plans to build a motorised gate and a roof for the vacant land beside the single-storey terrace house for outdoor activities.
The centre can be reached at 06-317 6461.
Source : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/11/16/southneast/15859849&sec=southneast
有一天，您的脚受伤了，医生告诉您，您需要一个月的时间来疗伤，这一个月里，您不能走动，还要坐上轮椅。在这一个月里，您坐着轮椅，一个人到处走走。
当您一个人乘着轻快铁，来到我国著名的双峰塔，下了站，突然间发现残障人士专用的电梯坏了，只有普通楼梯，您会怎么办？
当您一个人来到了银行提款机，想推着轮椅上前去，突然发现地上多了两层阶梯，这两层阶梯是您平时不以为意的，很容易就垮了过去的。现在，您要怎样才可以跨过去？
当您一个人来到购物广场，高高兴兴地来到升降机，右手一伸，突然发现原来平时随便就可以按倒的按钮，突然间长高了。现在，您要怎样才可以按到四楼的按钮？
当您一个人来到街道，眼前突然出现了一道沟渠，平时只要脚一跨，就很容易的垮了过去，今天，您只好绕道而行，心里却酸得很！
当您一个人来到夜市场，突然间听到有人窃窃细语“还出来做什么？不要到这里来阻碍交通啦！”您的心，会有多么的酸痛？
突然觉得自己被锁进生活的牢狱，一切变得很不自由，平时很容易办到的事，突然变得困难重重；平时不以为意的事，突然变的很心酸，因为这个城市充满障碍。
这个城市充满障碍，需要用我们的爱心来去除这些障碍，让更多的人可以出来走走，感受一下自由的乐趣，让我们一起为一个无障碍的城市而奋斗！（文稿提供：屏）
Be An Angel Campaign Graduation CeremonyDate : 28/10/2006 (Saturday)
Time : 7:00pm to 10:00pm
Venue : The Summit Auditorium
美門中心亟需電動門（馬六甲訊）美門殘障關懷中心急需一扇“愛心電動門”，協助殘障朋友克服住所的障礙；因此，期盼熱心的社會人士慷慨解囊，用愛心化解障礙！
馬六甲美門殘障關懷中心會所位於峇株安南默迪卡再也花園，現有的鐵門為駕車的殘障朋友帶來不便，造成他們必須下車開門，再上車把車駕進屋裡，然後又再下車把門關上。
對於行動方便者來說，這工作是非常簡單，但是對殘障的朋友來說，他們必須多花費好幾倍的力氣才能完成。
因此，如果中心能擁有一扇電動門，將免去殘障朋友面對的障礙。
屋旁空地搭建雨蓋供活動
該中心負責人周玉溪（60歲）對《古城》記者表示，中心的宗旨是提供殘障朋友各種培訓，中心的設備皆由熱心人士報效，現在最迫切需要的是一扇電動大門。
“接下來，中心將在屋旁的空地搭建雨蓋，作為殘障朋友活動的地方，包括進行學習製作麵包和糕餅的訓練課程。”
他希望熱心人士能夠慷慨解囊，減輕中心的負擔。
其妻子劉素芬（51歲）說，屋子走廊只能容納一部輪椅，廚房也很狹窄，對坐輪椅的他們來說，要煮食非常不便。
“我們希望廚房能夠擴建出去，方便我們在廚房煮食。”
來自蕉賴的劉素芬說，當局雖然在各處設立殘障駕車人士的停車格，但是停車格仍時常被人佔用，加上執法不嚴，令他們面對泊車的不便。
中心背景
提供才藝訓練
甲美門殘障關懷中心原為馬六甲基督教衛理公會社會關懷部屬下的組織之一，但近年來開始獨立運作，目前在峇株安南默迪卡再也花園擁有本身的會所。
美門殘障關懷中心目前只有一名學生，她是11歲的潘寶儀。從未受教育的她在中心的幫助下，明年開始進入市區一所國小就讀。
該中心希望為有需要的殘障朋友提供各種協助，包括才藝訓練，以便擁有自力更生的能力，同時培訓他們克服心里障礙，恢復自信心。
未來展望
5年內籌建新會所
衛理公會牧師劉孝端表示，該中心計劃在未來5年內，籌建一座新的永久會所，以提供協助給更多來自柔甲兩州的殘障朋友。
他說，該地段同樣位於默迪卡再也花園，佔地1畝，目前正進行轉換名字手續，籌建委員會也剛剛成立。
籌建委員會名單
顧問：江貞欽牧師，郭仁華牧師
主席：劉孝端牧師
副主席：黃得福，黃威理，李后軍
文書：鄭文璧
財政：蔡添達
查帳：顏鴻全
委員：羅家潤，萬福全，鄭榮華，郭素英，各牧區社會關懷委員會主席 （星洲日報／古城‧2006/10/19）
美門殘障關懷中心急需一扇“愛心電動門”，協助殘障朋友克服住所的障礙。
臨時的美門殘障關懷中心會所空間有限，希望未來能擁有一間寬敞的永久會所。左起為周玉溪、潘寶儀和劉素芬。
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200610192044&data=scnews&spid=184468
让生命的改变从这里开始
在这个圣诞，请送出有意义的礼物，让您的礼物成为改变他人生命的祝福。
In this Christmas, please kindly sponsor a meaningful Christmas present that will transform another person’s life! This is the best wish you can give on this special day.
在这个圣诞，许多残障同胞期盼着可以改变他们生命的礼物。那也许是一部适合的轮椅、也许是一辆改装电单车、也许是一个助听机、也也许是一部可以让他在家工作的电脑。这些礼物，对他们的生命都将带来巨大的改变，使他们可以自立更生，甚至养家活口，重拾生命的尊严。
In this Christmas, the one wish that our disabled friends prayed for is to receive a gift of kindness that will transform their life! This gift could be a suitable wheelchair, a specially modified motorcycle, hearing aid, a computer, etc. These gifts can provide a source of income to feed their families, help improve their life condition and create the opportunity for them to lead an independent life and above all, it helps them recover their loss self-esteem and willpower to live.
您可以按照个人的能力与感动，或者集合多人的力量，透过美门残障关怀基金会，送出一件您和您的家人或朋友想要送出的礼物。简单步骤如下：
No contribution is too small. You can contribute any amount as far as your limit allows, or you can also encourage others to contribute and come up with a bigger sum. Through the Beautiful Gate Foundation For The Disabled, you can donate the Christmas gift of your choice.All you need to do is follow the simple steps listed below:
1、联络美门残障关怀基金会的潘银珠小姐，根据以下目录选择一份您要送出的礼物，填妥表格及寄上支票。
Contact Ivy Pua of Beautiful Gate Foundation, select the gift you would like to give from the catalogue below, fill up the form and send together with a cheque.(No.29, Jalan SS2/59, 47300 P.J., Selangor, Malaysia) (Tel: 0378736579，78758609, email: bgcentre@yahoo.com)
2、我们将安排适合的残障同胞成为礼物的受惠者
Beautiful Gate Foundation will choose the most suitable disabled friend to be the beneficiary of that gift.
3、们将寄上免税收据及邀请卡以邀请您出席礼物捐赠典礼
We will then send you the receipt for tax exemption and also an invitation card to attend the gift-giving ceremony.
4、带您的家人或朋友出席礼物捐赠典礼以亲手将您的祝福交在受惠的残障者手上
Bring along your family and/or friends to this ceremony to present the gift of love to the chosen disabled friend with your own hands.
可拆式轻型轮椅
在许多贫困的角落，残障同胞们仍然用着不适合的轮椅或甚至没有轮椅，导致他们的起居饮食需要依靠他人的协助。这也使到他们失去外出求学、就职和交友的机会。一部可拆式的轻型轮椅不但可以让他们自己进行如厕、上下床和日常的生活作息，也可以让他们跨出狭小的天地，并减轻家人的负担。您的礼物，更可以帮助他们走进学校，走入教育，走向未来……
Disabled friends living in poverty have only basic wheelchair and some of them are even WITHOUT one! They depend heavily on others to carry out simple daily activities. As a result of mobility restriction, many of them lose the opportunity to attend school, seek employment and make friends. A detachable wheelchair will allow them to take care of their daily activities independently without troubling others therefore giving them a chance to step out of their house into the society, this will also lessen the burden on their family members. Your act of kindness gives them the opportunity to go into school, gain employment, and most importantly, give them hope for the future….
三轮电单车
不断发生的交通意外和工业意外制造了不少中年的残障者，使他们失去工作能力，也使家庭和孩子们失去经济支柱。一辆经改装的三轮电单车不但可以帮助残障父母开创自己的小生意，一尽为人父母的责任，您的礼物也可让残障同胞继续为社会家庭作出贡献，带着残障的身躯培育优良的下一代。
The numerous traffic and industrial accidents have created many middle-aged disabled persons, causing them to lose their ability to work, and cutting off the main course of income for their families. With a three-wheeled motorcycle, not only does it allow the disabled parents to run small businesses and fulfill their role as the main provider of the family, your gift will also allows them to continue contributing to the society regardless of their disabilities.
电动轮椅
重度残障但智力正常的孩子最大的悲哀是来自无法推动轮椅的无奈，仰赖他人等待他人来协助的感觉是腐蚀他们求生意志的最大因素。电动轮椅可以让他们只用一根手指就能控制前进的方向，您的礼物将为他们的生命打开一条崭新的道路，奔向自由的前程。
The most upsetting fact for those with severe physical disability but mentally healthy children is that they cannot even operate a basic wheelchair. The thought of always having to fully depend on the help of others is the main cause towards their loss of determination to live. A motorised chair only requires one finger to operate, this is at least still within their ability. Your gift will open a whole new future path for them to live independently.
助听器
多重障碍的孩童不但在肢体上有所残缺，有者在听觉上也有所缺陷。您的礼物不但能把美妙的声音带进他们的生命 ，也可以为他们建立与社会沟通的桥梁，从而给他们带来友情、育乐、学习及与团体的互动。
Children with multiple disabilities not only suffer from physical disability, some of them suffer from hearing disability too! Your gift will bring beautiful sounds back to their lives and give them the chance to build the bridge of communication with the society, make friends and participate in social activities.
电子课程学费
许多残障青年在小时候因交通与环境上的障碍，无法到学校求学，导致他们日后无法找到工作。因此，让他们重新走进学习的殿堂，使他们拥有一技之长，是唯一能协助他们建立将来的管道。您的礼物可以让学成的残障者从事电子工作，为自己的生活打拼。
Many disabled children did not have the chance to attend school due to mobility and unfriendly environment. This makes it difficult for them to seek employment in their adulthood. The only way for them to achieve independent living is to encourage them to return to school to gain more knowledge. Sponsoring their tuition fees gives them the chance to be educated and acquired lifelong skills that will help them build a future for themselves.
谋生电脑与打印机
贫苦人家中若有重度残障的孩子，其中一位家庭成员必须离职留在家中照顾他，这常带来家庭的经济危机。一部适合的电脑和打印机可以让他们在家工作，并让重度残障的孩子得到妥善的关怀。除此之外，您的礼物也可以让无法在职场上做工的残障同胞在家工作谋生。
If there is a severely disabled child in a family, one of the family members will have to leave their job to take care of the disabled child full-time. This often causes a financial crisis in the family, more so for the poor families. With a computer and a printer, they can work from home while taking care of the child. Additionally, a computer can also create job opportunities for the disabled adults to work from the comfort of their home and generate income for living.
护臀坐垫
因脊椎损伤而导致下半身瘫痪的残障同胞拥有许多后遗症。除了排泄系统失去正常功能外，他们也常因着臀部溃烂而卧病在床。护臀坐垫能保护他们容易压伤与溃烂的臀部，也能使他们拥有正常的作息，过着正常的生活。
Spinal injury paralyses the lower body. As a result, these disabled friends suffer from bowel malfunction and easily develop pressure sore that force them to be in bed for an extensive period of time. With a specially designed medical cushion , it protects their vulnerable hips from further injury and infection, thus allowing them to lead a normal life instead spending the rest of their lives in bed.
星洲推出化礙為愛卡（八打靈再也訊）為了協助國內殘障朋友籌募各種所需的基金，星洲基金會特別推出適合各種喜慶和節日的“化礙為愛卡”，供國內殘障團體售賣以籌募基金。
星洲基金信托人、星洲媒體集團總編輯蕭依釗表示，星洲媒體集團長期以來參與各種籌款活動，即使是四肢健全者在籌款時都會面對困難，星洲媒體深知殘友們會面對更多的困難。
“星洲媒體推動這項活動的信念是‘行有餘力、則以助人’，希望廣大社會人士能夠考慮到殘友們所面對的困難，慷慨解囊。星洲日報在得到廣大華社支持下，成為大馬第一中文大報，藉以推動這項活動回饋社會，通過媒體力量為國內殘友謀福利。”
盡力協助弱勢群體
蕭依釗表示，星洲媒體向來堅持媒體人必須具有人文情懷和人道主義精神，才能關心廣大民眾──尤其是弱勢群體的困難，星洲媒體一直都在能力範圍內，盡力向弱勢群體伸出援手。
“國內殘友團體，例如雙福殘障自強發展協會，每年農曆新年前都有通過義賣牙刷，為殘友籌募回鄉過年的車資。其實，雙福的籌募小組每年都得提心吊膽，怕牙刷銷量不好，血本無歸。”
蕭依釗說，星洲媒體這幾年來有注意到雙福遇到的困難，因此都會主動提供協助，例如出動學生記者協助義賣牙刷。而為了能把這項努力擴大至其他殘友組織，因此推出了這項“化礙為愛卡”活動。
賀卡適用於各種節慶
“化礙為愛卡”一共包含兩套各6張的賀卡，適用於各種喜慶及節日。星洲媒體只酌收印刷成本，製作費、設計費用和版權等一律不收取，所得悉數歸殘友組織。
蕭依釗表示，雖然時下民眾流行傳送電子卡，但是電子卡始終缺乏誠意，因此鼓勵民眾多傳送傳統賀卡。
蕭依釗週六下午接見各大殘障組織代表，商討“化礙為愛卡”活動細則時表示，星洲媒體的目標是將“化礙為愛卡”活動列為常年活動，籲請社會人士熱烈響應這項義賣賀卡活動，向親朋好友祝賀時也可以捐助殘友，向他們表達一份善心和愛。
星洲媒體將通過各區經理與當地殘友組織開會商量活動細則，凡是有興趣的殘友組織，可以聯絡星洲日報業務促進部，電話：03-79658811。
出席週六會議者包括雙福殘障自強發展協會創辦人沈秋香、華人殘障協會總秘書廖志雄、美門殘障關懷中心代表李文傑、星洲日報高級經理（業務促進）謝念芳、星洲基金高級經理湯琇珺及副文教主任葉偉章。
沈秋香（雙福殘障自強發展協會創辦人）
盼公眾大力響應
雙福每年的牙刷義賣活動，過程有感動也有心酸；而且義賣牙刷活動的接觸面並不廣，比較難達到目標。
星洲媒體推動“化礙為愛卡”活動的接觸層面會更加的廣，加上有星洲日報的積極宣傳，推動力量更大，殘友可以不必再多費唇舌，向社會人士兜售。
一張小小的賀卡價錢並不高，但禮輕情義重，這是電子卡所不能比擬的，誠心希望社會人士能夠大力響應這項活動。
廖志雄（華人殘障協會總秘書）
感激星洲媒體協助
非常感激星洲媒體，也很感動星洲媒體從未忽視殘友們的需要。
“化礙為愛卡”活動是很好的概念，比起現在流行的電子卡更有意義，因為傳統卡片握起來有手感，寄卡人親自書寫的賀詞令收卡人讀了倍感親切和貼心。
誠心希望社會的善長仁翁們能夠大力支持這項殘友醒覺運動。
李文傑（美門殘障關懷中心）
解決殘友們困難
這是一項很好的活動概念，殘友們可以通過義賣賀卡，與更多的殘友分享所得。非常感激星洲媒體，解決了殘友們的困難，不必自製賀卡，只需參與義賣籌款。 （星洲日報‧2006/10/14）
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200610141447&data=scnews&spid=184468
关怀与分享
美门残障关怀基金会自成立以来，致力秉持着提升残障人士的生活素质和协助他们融入社会的方向而努力。但由于残障人士多来自贫穷家庭及面对肢残所造成的限制，须要各项残障辅助器材才能独立生活。承蒙社会热心人士的慷慨支持并在拿订巴杜卡周美芬的见证下，我们共送出了10部轻型轮椅、3辆电单车和一辆电动轮椅给有需要的残障同胞。目前，我们尚需35部轻型轮椅、13部电动轮椅、和23辆电单车。恳请热心人士继续给予我们支持，协助更多有需要的残障朋友。
Since the establishment of Beautiful Gate Foundation, its effort is to enhance the quality life for the disabled and to help them to be integrated into the society. However, most of the disabled came from poor family and their mobility limitations was their major obstacle. Therefore, various aid equipments are needed to enable them to live independently.
With the generous support from the community and witness by Y.B. Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun, we were able to provide 10 light weight wheelchair，3 motorcycles and 1 motorized wheelchair for their usage. We still in need of 35 light weight wheelchairs, 13 motorized wheelchairs and 23 three wheeled motorcycles. We hope the community will come forward to support our effort in helping more needy disabled to be more mobile.
舊瓶裝新墨環保又省錢（八打靈再也訊）電腦打印機墨盒用完以後，你是把它丟棄還是花上百餘令吉重新充墨呢？
現在，通過韓國進口的充墨系統機器，你可以做到環保、省錢，又能為殘障人提供就業機會，這樣一舉多得的慈善工作，你願意支持嗎？
這種甫在大馬引進的全新環保充墨服務，以舊瓶裝新墨的概念，為公眾的電腦打印機墨盒充墨。你無須以高昂的費用購買新墨盒，在比原裝墨盒節省高達70%的情況下，就能簡易充墨了。
培訓殘障者
在韓國公司PCA Systems有限公司與美門殘障關懷中心配合下，通過技術轉移，培訓殘障人士，讓他們掌握一技之長，為公眾提供電腦打印機墨盒充墨服務。
你的舊墨盒無須丟棄，只要把它交給美門殘障關懷中心，由中心在公司培訓的殘障人士，為你以這個充墨系統機器充墨，一天後就能領取已裝新墨的墨盒，每瓶充墨費用介於25至35令吉，視品牌而定。
楊居順：負責充墨協調工作
行動不便的殘障者楊居順（44歲）是在美門殘障關懷中心負責充墨服務的協調工作。一旦公眾把舊墨盒送來後，他就要安排送貨事項。這個工作，目前是他的正職。
他說，很高興能擁有這份工作，這份工作很適合他。
金柄國：可徹底清除殘餘墨汁
PCA Systems有限公司顧問金柄國表示，自行購墨自行充墨效果並不佳，通常骯髒而且會漏墨。丟棄的墨盒又不利於環保。
他說，通過充墨系統機器，此機器將徹底清除殘餘的墨汁，達到更完善的效果。
謝秀貞：墨盒污染環境影響健康
美門殘障關懷中心總干事謝秀貞表示，丟棄的墨盒，一旦墨盒的毒素流入泥土造成環境污染，污染的環境會影響人類的健康，也是導致人類殘障的其中一個因素。
身為殘障者，她不希望殘障人數繼續增加，透過這種一舉多得的環保活動，預防任何可能導致人類殘障的可能性。
她說，在這項計劃下，殘障人士獲得培訓、掌握了另一項技能後，以自己的能力自立更生。
目前該中心已送一名殘障人士到該公司接受培訓，公眾只要把舊的墨盒送到該中心，就有人負責交到該公司去處理，第二天就能取回。
“
省時、環保又為慈善獻力，希望公眾踴躍支持我們，把舊墨盒交給我們充墨。”
李景源：自供自足
接受充墨服務培訓的殘障者李景源（28歲）表示，很開心有了這份工作可以自供自足。
他說，之前賣報紙遭人打搶，相比之下這份工作更穩定和安全。
翁來發：擬培訓更多殘障者
PCA Systems有限公司董事翁來發表示，現階段是美門殘障關懷中心的殘障人士來到公司進行充墨服務。如果反應理想，公司培訓更多的殘障人士，並在中心設置一個部門。
美門殘障關懷中心
“舊瓶裝新墨電腦打印機墨盒充墨服務推介禮”
日期：10月1日
時間：早上8時至下午1時
地點：八打靈再也SS2跳蚤市場（為食街旁）
聯絡電話：78736579 （星洲日報／大都會‧2006/09/29）
李景源已接受專業的充墨培訓，現在他已能獨當一面。
從韓國引的充墨系統機器，減少環境污染，省錢省力，且為殘障人士提供另一個就業機會。
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200609290464&data=scnews&spid=184702
Ten participants of the inaugural Lions Engineering and Drafting Services (LEADS) programme, among them seven physically-disabled individuals and three transsexuals, received their course certificates at a graduation ceremony recently.
Of the 10, two have successfully found jobs in the workforce.
Tham Meng Poh and Elisha Kor will undergo a three-month training stint at Minconsult Engineering Consulting’s office in Petaling Jaya and Ipoh respectively.
Kor, who was accompanied by her entire family, said: “I am definitely one of the luckier ones as not many families are willing to care for their disabled or transsexual child. My family has taught me how to be strong while the LEADS programme has given me the opportunity to be independent.”
Loh (left) presenting wheelchairbound Tham with his graduation certificate.
As for Tham, he said LEADS had helped him to discover that nothing was impossible with hard work.
Among those present at the graduation ceremony were Kelana Jaya MP Loh Seng Kok, Lions Club members, HATI committee members, representatives from Beautiful Gate for the Disabled, Rumah WAKE and various NGOs, Minconsult and Taylor’s College staff.
The LEADS programme is a collaboration between five organisations the Lions Club of Kuala Lumpur (West), HATI, Beautiful Gate Foundation for the Disabled, Rumah WAKE and Taylor’s College Petaling Jaya.
It was initiated to offer the disabled and transsexuals the opportunity to undergo practical training in basic engineering drafting and computer skills training.
Kok Hee Poh, programme organiser and HATI core member said physically-challenged individuals and transsexuals were chosen for the programme as both groups were deprived of access to education.
“Many schools cannot accommodate the needs of the disabled, especially those in wheelchairs due to physical constraint, accessibility and mobility. As for the transsexuals, many of them are misunderstood and treated unfairly by others because of their physical features and mannerisms.
“I believe LEADS is a feasible option that allows them to acquire the much needed skills to enter the job market,” said Kok.
A collaboration effort among five organisations – the Lions Club of Kuala Lumpur (West), HATI, Beautiful Gate Foundation for the Disabled, Rumah WAKE and Taylor’s College Petaling Jaya, LEADS was initiated to offer the disabled and transsexuals the opportunity to undergo practical training in basic engineering drafting and computer skills training.
Of the ten, two participants have successfully gained entry into the workforce industry.
Tham Meng Poh and Elisha Kor will undergo a 3-month training at the design office in Petaling Jaya and site office in Ipoh respectively with Minconsult Engineering Consulting – one of the largest engineering consulting companies in this country.
Kor, who arrived with her entire family in tow, credited the love and support she received at home as the greatest factor that gave her the courage to go the distance.
“I am definitely one of the luckier ones as not many families are willing to care for their disabled or transsexual child. My family has taught me how to be strong while the LEADS programme has given me the opportunity to be independent,” said Kor.
As for Tham, he said LEADS has helped him discovered that with hard work, nothing is impossible.
“I am grateful to our trainers for their time and effort in preparing us for the workforce industry. While sceptics might doubt the possibility of us achieving so much within the 3-month training period, I am living proof that success can be acquired if you try hard enough,” said Tham proudly.
Among those present at the Graduation Ceremony included Loh Seng Kok, Member of Parliament for Kelana Jaya, Lions Clubs members, HATI committee members, representatives from Beautiful Gate for the Disabled, Rumah WAKE and various NGOs, Minconsult and Taylor’s College staff.
According to Lion David Yoong, Lions Club of Kuala Lumpur (West) President, the LEADS programme is one of the many projects organised by this Club to aid the disadvantaged in society.
“The programme has been specially designed to help participants gain the practical skills to succeed in life. However, it is important that they take the first step, and walk the path themselves in order to prove to others that they can do it,” said Yoong.
Kok Hee Poh, programme organiser and HATI core member said physically-challenged individuals and transsexuals were chosen for the programme as both groups are deprived of access to education.
“Many schools cannot accommodate the needs of the disabled, especially those in wheelchairs due to physical constraint, accessibility and mobility. As for the transsexuals, many of them are misunderstood and treated unfairly by others because of their physical features and mannerisms. I believe LEADS is a feasible option that allows them to acquire the much needed skills to enter the job market,” said Kok.
According to Pradeep Nair, Taylor’s College Petaling Jaya COO, it is important for everyone to be ever conscious of those in need, and not let charity be an occasional affair.
“Besides taking the lead in performing community services, it is equally important for educators to teach students about the importance of giving back to society. Compassion and empathy are essential traits in order for our youth to take their productive place as leaders in the global community,” said Pradeep.
Following the success of LEADS’ first batch of participants, LIONS Club, HATI and Taylor’s College have launched the second intake. This will give the less fortunate more opportunities to get a head start in life.
Applications are now open, and interested candidates are advised to send in their forms before September 22.
Training commences October 3, 2006, with classes held twice a week for 3 months, after office hours. Classes are conducted by LEADS volunteers and trainers, and students must attend all 24 classes and complete 10 assignments in order to be eligible for graduation.
For more information, contact Lion David Yoong at 012 – 391 3981, Kok Hee Poh at 013 – 390 4291 or Azura Abdullah at 7876 3939 (Taylor’s College).
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia prides itself as a caring society, but its public transport system has been described as “shockingly disabled-unfriendly”.
And this censure comes from the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, the ministry responsible for the welfare of the disabled, no less.
“I am shocked that disabled citizens, especially those who are wheelchair-bound, are unable to utilise public transport because little effort has been made to enable them to move about easily,” said parliamentary secretary Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun.
“I think it is relevant that we keep public facilities and public transport disabled-friendly, and every one has a role to make this a reality, including transport providers and local councils.”
ENABLING THE DISABLED: Chew receiving a complaint from wheelchair-bound citizens near the Bangsar LRT bus station during a campaign protesting against an insensitive public transport system.
She said this at the Bangsar LRT station yesterday after witnessing a campaign to highlight problems faced by the physically disabled in using public transport.
During the campaign, some 30 wheelchair-bound people showed that it was impossible for them to get into a bus because of the steps and the fact that the door was too narrow for a wheelchair.
The campaign was organised by the Beautiful Gate Foundation for the Disabled, Society of Chinese Disabled Persons Malaysia, Damai Disabled Persons' Association of Selangor and the Federal Territory and Malaysian Spinal Injuries Association.
Beautiful Gate executive director Sia Siew Chin said the disabled community was frustrated that repeated calls to make public transport disabled-friendly had long been ignored.
She cited the launch of Areas 5 & 6 of Rapid KL's new system on Saturday, noting that the new buses used to cover routes in Klang, Shah Alam, Subang Jaya, Damansara, Petaling Jaya, and Puchong did not address the needs of disabled people.
“Many often forget that we have rights too – and here we are talking about basic rights such as that to move about freely.
“We hope the Government will place some emphasis on our needs because we want to live independently and not be a burden to anyone,” she said.
Disabled people, she added, often had to rely on taxis but many taxi drivers refused to accept wheelchair-bound passengers.
According to her, the Kelana Jaya (formerly Putra) LRT line allows easy access while KTM Komuter is also accessible with some help but the other LRT lines and KL Monorail have “ignored our needs”.
Rapid KL corporate communications senior manager Katherine Chew said the company planned to import 100 buses with ramps that would enable boarding by wheelchair-bound passengers by December.
Source : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/9/25/nation/15533086&sec=nation
購100無障礙設施巴士（八打靈再也訊）rapidKL訂購了100輛無障礙設施巴士，以方便殘障人士乘搭巴士。
rapidKL高級公關經理周庭亦表示，該公司將與殘障協會開會，在瞭解哪個地方屬於殘障朋友經常出入的地區，再擬出一個完善的巴士路線。
她說，這100輛巴士將會經過幾項測試，以確保所有設計都可方便殘障人士、樂齡人士、小孩子及孕婦使用。此外，巴士的梯級設計也比較矮。
她週日（24日）在孟沙輕快鐵站進行的rapidKL推介孟沙區巴士新路線後，對傳媒這麼表示。
盼輕快鐵仿效
婦女、家庭及社會發展部政務次長拿丁巴都卡周美芬認為，Rapid KL為殘障人士準備這項設施，不論對殘障朋友還是社會來說，絕對是件好事。
她說，希望日後巴士公司在考慮購買新巴士前，先顧慮到殘障朋友的方便，同時也希望輕快鐵可以仿效這種做法。
“我也希望地方政府可以設立更多無障礙設施予不幸人士，因為這些設施對他們來說，是絕對需要的。”
吁政府關注殘障人需要
此外，無障礙環境及容易使用公共交通工具服務協會（BEAT）代表姆魯格斯瓦蘭表示，希望政府可以多考慮各地，尤其是巴生河流域一帶的殘障朋友，對公共交通及措施的需要。
“在1994年，一班殘障朋友已向Star輕快鐵公司反映困境，並建議在輕快鐵上另設可置放輪椅的地方，以方便殘障朋友使用，遺憾的是過了12年，該公司依然達不到我們的需求。”
“另外，電動火車及單軌火車也都沒有為殘障人士提供這項措施。”
姆魯格斯瓦蘭指出，殘障朋友的意願是可以過正常人的生活，他們也會想要到購物中心閒逛、求學、看電影、工作及到餐廳去吃飯等，但目前他們都做不到，因為他們不只行動不便，政府及私人機構都沒有提供足夠的無障礙措施，這叫他們如何出門呢？
出席這項推介活動者包括達邁殘障人士協會、馬來西亞華人殘障人士協會、美門殘障關懷基金會及馬來西亞脊椎傷障協會代表。
謝秀貞：應考慮殘障人需要
謝秀貞（美門殘障關懷基金會總幹事）表示，交通工具服務理應考慮到殘障人士的需要。
“我們也想過正常人的生活，有權力上學、逛街及工作，但卻因為交通不便，造成許多殘障朋友被困在家裡，甚麼地方都不能去，甚麼事情都不能做。”
她呼籲大馬交通提供更多無障礙設備於殘障人士，讓他們的生活得以改善，且可以做個100%的好公民，為社會帶來貢獻。
秦海凡：殘障人有勇氣走入社會
秦海凡（50歲）表示，希望我國每輛公共交通工具都擁有無障礙設施，以方便殘障人士使用。
他說，這項措施不只對殘障人士有益處，對樂齡人士來說，也是好消息。
“有了這樣的設施，殘障朋友才有勇氣走入社會，培養獨立精神，以讓他們進一步融入社會的每個角落。”
他稱，無障礙設施對於歐美國家來說，是政府為殘障人士提供的最基本設施。
汪小明：盼設更多無障礙設備
汪小明（33歲，馬來西亞脊椎傷障協會委員）表示，該會於12年前已向輕快鐵公司反映要求，但至今仍然未提供無障礙設施給予殘障人士。
“希望以後會有更多為殘障人士設立的無障礙設施設備，因為對殘障朋友來說是有很大的益處。”
BEAT呼吁rapidKL為殘障朋友做的建設
- 儘快為殘障乘客爭取交通福利，取得更多無障礙設施巴士，尤其是坐輪椅的殘障人士
- 保證1258個新的巴士站都提供無障礙設施，以方便坐輪椅人士、樂齡人士、孕婦及嬰孩車
- 邀請技術專家來研討及測量殘障朋友的需求
BEAT強烈要求官方
- 強制所有公共基礎設施和公共交通工具採取可行性的標準系統計劃
- 保證所有舊有、現有及新設的交通工具，都有為殘障人士而設的無障礙系統
- 認可殘疾人士是正常人和公民，並在憲法上同等看待，並擁有同等地位和權利
- 希望大馬對殘疾人士採取等同對待政策，並保護他們的權利和尊嚴
- 在所有政策發展中考慮並顧及殘疾人士的需要。
（星洲日報／大都會‧2006/09/24）
姆魯格斯瓦蘭展示國外政府為提供的無障礙設施巴士服務的照片。
圖為外國巴士專門為殘障人士提供的無障礙設施。
摘自：http://www.sinchew-i.com/article.phtml?artid=200609242218&data=scnews&spid=184702
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