Disabled-friendly approach a plus for neighbourhood

Photos by ANDREW CHONG and courtesy of BEAUTIFUL GATE

Pastor Sia says that while many constraints still exist, SS2 is a haven compared to many other areas.

FOR THE disabled community, SS2 is a haven compared to many other housing estates in PJ, despite the many constraints that still exist.

Thanks to the local council, barrier-free walkways have been installed in the SS2 commercial area under the Local Agenda 21 plan and as part of the Petaling Jaya Barrier-Free programme to promote easy accessibility for the disabled, senior citizens and children.

According to Damansara Utama assemblyman and SS2 Cares working committee chairman Datuk Lim Choon Kin, the RM470,000 pilot project saw the instalment of various facilities including barrier-free walkways from SS2/24 (outside Beautiful Gate Foundation) to the SS2 commercial square, ramps, two parking lots and one toilet for the disabled within the park (also accessible) in the middle of the square.

“The disabled community needs to get out, too; being cooped indoors can limit their growth emotionally, mentally and spiritually,” said Beautiful Gate Foundation executive director Pastor Sia Siew Chin.

Beautiful Gate was established in SS2 in 1995, and its inhabitants have seen neighbourhood develop in their favour over the years, albeit very slowly.

“The government has helped us build ramps to access the corridors in the main commercial centre, but we need the cooperation of the public and the business community,” said Sia.

With the exception of SaveMart, Beautiful Gate residents said the other shop lots are inaccessible. The public, meanwhile, are inconsiderate and constantly block the ramps with their vehicles or park at spots designated for the disabled.

Nevertheless, Sia says there are small mercies to be thankful for, such as the residents' willingness to welcome the disabled community into their neighbourhood.

“I felt so included and touched when I was approached by SS2B Rukun Tetangga to be part of their committee.

“They displayed a keenness to understand us, and have educated us in certain things.

“They've made us feel at home,” said Sia, who is also a committee member of SS2 Cares.

Source : http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/5/13/central/14222267&sec=central