In a statement released in conjunction with Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2021 on May 20, the group said technology has proven beneficial in ensuring the inclusion and independence of over 600,000 registered persons with disabilities in the country.
“However, the enforcement of movement control orders (MCO) during the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed us to give additional emphasis and serious attention to digital technology accessibility,” it said.
“Digital accessibility is not limited to ensuring faster and wider internet coverage throughout Malaysia. It also encompasses accessibility to websites and mobile applications.
“It should also include the affordability and utilisation of technologies, such as assistive devices, while also ensuring that personal safety and privacy are guaranteed.”
The council called for the government to fulfil its duties under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 and the Asean Enabling Masterplan 2025 in implementing a number of solutions to improve digital inclusion.
These include introducing and enforcing regulations relating to design and production of inclusive technologies, providing funding for government agencies to create accessible websites and mobile applications, and encouraging tech companies to develop the human capital needed to create accessible technologies.
The council also pushed for greater engagement between the communications and multimedia ministry and people with disabilities and related organisations, facilitating greater access to published works for the blind and providing support for people with disabilities to engage in the science and technology fields.
“Ultimately, as the government of Malaysia and the overall society are embracing digitalisation in this country, we must make sure the agenda also takes into account the access, equity and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
“Not only will it better prepare our nation in facing a similar pandemic in the future, but it also ensures meaningful economic prosperity for all, as we strive to achieve the Shared prosperity Vision 2030.”