To further promote accessibility and inclusivity for People with Physical Disabilities, We.Kare painted designated parking spaces for people with disabilities in several locations including Masjid Suri Seri Begawan Raja Pengiran Anak Damit, Kampong Manggis Madang, Pasar Pelbagai Barangan Gadong and the Civil Service Institute.
We.Kare initiated these efforts to make parking more convenient for those who need it most as the group believes everyone deserves equal access to public spaces and opportunities.
The team of six middle management officers from various government agencies launched the initiative “Advocating for Proper Usage of Parking for People with Physical Disabilities” to raise awareness and drive change while championing the rights of individuals with disabilities in the Sultanate.
The event took place at the Masjid Suri Seri Begawan Raja Pengiran Anak Damit Hall at Kampong Manggis Madang on Wednesday.
The project is part of their involvement in the 35th Executive Development Programme for Middle Management Officers (EDPMMO).
“It is an awareness programme to call to action for building owners to ensure their facilities are accessible to all, regardless of ability,” said a We.Kare team member.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities, this initiative targets building owners, particularly those of shopping centres and government agencies, to prioritise accessibility for all.
“Parking spaces are often overlooked, but accessible parking is vital for people with disabilities to participate fully in everyday activities,” said a PAPDA member.
“Unfortunately, awareness about these designated spots remains low and misuse can significantly limit mobility.”
We.Kare also unveiled a series of programmes and initiatives to promote accessibility and inclusivity including awareness campaigns through radio and television, engaging video content and informative posters to advocate for accessible public spaces, workplaces and communities.
50 informative posters were distributed to representatives of government agencies, shopping malls and building owners.
During the event, the Department of Community Development (JAPEM) presented a talk on the specific challenges faced by people with disabilities.
Additionally, the Authority on Building Control and Construction Industry (ABCi) presented the Different Abilities Design Guidelines 2018, offering practical solutions for creating accessible environments.
We.Kare hopes this initiative will inspire a societal shift towards greater inclusivity, empowering individuals with disabilities to participate fully in their communities.
The event was attended by key stakeholders including government agencies, building owners, the Paraplegic and Physically Handicapped Association (PAPDA) Council for the Welfare of Persons with Different Abilities (MKOKU).
Present as the guest of honour was the JAPEM Acting Director, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Fauziah Hj Mohd Salleh.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
