CAP Demands Urgent Action on Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PWD)

Lai Cheng October 14, 2025 0 Comments
Pasar Balik Pulau – no curb cut or slope at the bottom of the ramp.
Damaged door at Penang GH OKU toilet.

The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) calls on the Ministry of Housing and Local Government to urgently improve accessibility in public buildings and government premises. A recent CAP survey has revealed alarming gaps in basic facilities for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), effectively denying them equal rights to access public services.

Findings from our survey include:

1. Tuanku Syed Putra Building, Leboh Downing – No disabled-friendly toilets; lifts are too narrow for wheelchairs.
2. Several shop lots were constructed without incorporating accessibility features for PwDs.
3. Komtar Bus Terminal – No disabled-friendly toilets; ramps are unsafe, and walkways are too narrow for safe navigation.
4. Balik Pulau – Poorly designed ramp that is unsafe and inaccessible for PwDs.
5. Several bus stands lack accessibility features for PwDs.

Disabled access is blocked by barriers ramps cannot be used.
Greenlane bus stops lack accessibility features for the disabled.

Local authorities play a crucial role in ensuring accessibility and inclusivity in public spaces, businesses, and community facilities under the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 (Act 685) and the Uniform Building By-Laws (State of Penang) 1986 (UBBL), which were amended in 1991.

The UBBL requires that buildings constructed before the commencement of the amendment must comply with accessibility provisions within three years of its enforcement.

These findings underscore a serious failure to uphold the standards established under both the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 (Act 685) and the Uniform Building By-Laws (State of Penang) 1986, particularly By-Law 34A, which mandates that buildings and facilities open to the public must be accessible, safe, and usable by all, including PwDs. This year marks the 34th year after the UBBL amendment in 1991.

In essence, the law not only grants local authorities the power but also places upon them the duty to safeguard the rights of PwDs by ensuring that public spaces, businesses, and amenities are accessible, safe, and inclusive.

Penang GH OKU toilet without support bars; not wheelchair friendly.
No OKU toilet at Komtar bus station.

Voices from the PwD community:

“Sometimes the disabled toilet is locked, and I have to hold my bladder until I get home. It makes me feel sidelined.”

“The ramps are too steep — using them is dangerous. I fear toppling over in such unsafe places.”

“We are forced to depend on others just to access government services. This is not dignity.”

Despite existing legal provisions, CAP observes that many buildings and facilities remain non-compliant. Inaccessible toilets, poorly maintained ramps, and locked or unusable disabled facilities continue to strip PwDs of their right to dignity and independence.

CAP strongly urges local authorities to take immediate action by:

  • Enforcing compliance with the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 and universal design standards.
  • Conducting urgent audits and upgrading facilities that fall short of accessibility requirements.
  • Ensuring disabled toilets remain unlocked and functional, or providing clear notices when under repair.
  • Training staff and instituting regular monitoring of accessibility facilities.
  • Involving PwD organisations in the planning, monitoring, and oversight of accessibility infrastructure to ensure facilities meet actual needs.
Sungai Dua bus stops lack accessibility features for the disabled.

Accessibility is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. Local authorities must act now to uphold their legal and moral responsibilities towards Persons with Disabilities, ensuring that every Malaysian can access public spaces and services with dignity and independence.

 

 

Mohideen Abdul Kader
President
Consumers Association of Penang (CAP)

Press Statement, 14 October 2025