'They don't need pity, just facilities'

Observers say a lack of public facilities makes Jakarta an urban prison for people with disabilities. To commemorate the International Day of Disabled Persons on Dec. 3, The Jakarta Post asked people for their opinions on the issue.

Bayu Satria, 25, works at a telecommunications company in South Jakarta. He lives in Jatiwaringin, East Jakarta:

I once saw a man in a wheelchair trying to get on a public minivan. Even with the help of a friend it took him a long time to get in. It must have been uncomfortable for him. I have also seen people in wheelchairs at bus terminals, because of course they cannot just stop buses and board in the middle of the street like other people.

It is really difficult for disabled people to get around Jakarta, and I do not think the administration has done enough to make their lives easier.

I do not think they want special treatment or pity, just the facilities that they and others need, like nonslip ramps.

Yunityasari, 24, works for an engineering company in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta. She lives in Pondok Kelapa, East Jakarta:

I do not think the administration spend any time thinking about the disabled. It is hard enough for non-disabled people to walk around in Jakarta, so you can imagine for the disabled.

I think the private sector has more concern. For example, I know a private television station that offers operator jobs for the disabled.

Jakarta's main roads offer better access for the disabled, but most disabled people do not live on the main roads. It is important to improve access in areas on the outskirts of the city, where most people live.

-- The Jakarta Post