'They don't need pity, just facilities'

'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