Why did the ban include wheelchairs and mobility scooters on roads?

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The Inclusion of Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters in Road Bans Raises Concerns for the Disabled Community

The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy has voiced significant concern regarding the inclusion of wheelchairs and mobility scooters within a broader ban on micromobility vehicles on roads. This decision is expected to have a substantial impact on the disabled community, who rely on these personal mobility devices for their daily lives. The centre has questioned whether adequate consultation took place with the affected community before these devices were incorporated into the ban.
Lack of Consultation Alleged for Inclusion of Personal Mobility Devices

The chief executive of the Galen Centre, Azrul Mohd Khalib, stated that the restrictions introduced by the new regulations appear to stem from a limited understanding and a lack of consultation with the disabled community. He specifically raised the question of whether the disabled community was consulted prior to their personal mobility devices or aids being included in the ban. This sentiment was expressed following the transport minister's announcement regarding the prohibition of vehicles such as mopeds, personal mobility devices, and personal mobility aids on public roads.
Road and Infrastructure Challenges Force Reliance on Devices

The reality for many Malaysians living with disabilities, particularly those with impaired movement, is that personal mobility is crucial for independence, health, and quality of life. Azrul Mohd Khalib highlighted that Malaysian infrastructure, including roads, city planning, and public transportation, is often not ideal. Many individuals with disabilities do not have access to adapted private vehicles and therefore depend on their personal mobility devices, such as mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, to navigate from their homes to essential locations like shops and malls. The article points out that these individuals are frequently compelled to use the road for travel because pavements and walkways are often not disabled-friendly.
Inaccessible Pedestrian Infrastructure Hinders Alternative Travel

The article elaborates on the challenges posed by Malaysian pavements and walkways, noting that they are frequently not designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Issues such as excessive height, a lack of slopes for accessibility, and hazardous or unrepaired surfaces can make movement dangerous for wheelchairs and other personal mobility devices. Even in areas like Brickfields, the article suggests that using wheelchairs on pedestrian pavements can be difficult. Ironically, the new legislation reportedly extends the ban to the use of these personal mobility aids on pedestrian crossings and overhead walkways, even those equipped with lifts and specifically designed for disabled-friendly access.
Importance of Mobility Aids for Independence and Well-being

Mobility aids are fundamentally designed to assist individuals with mobility challenges, enabling them to achieve the greatest possible independence. The use of these devices can reduce pain, increase confidence, and boost self-esteem. Powered or motorised wheelchairs, in particular, are noted to improve daily routines, decrease reliance on caregivers, and enhance participation in mobility-related activities and social life. The transport ministry has indicated that a RM300 fine will be imposed for non-compliance with these rules, to be enforced by the police and the Road Transport Department. The minister also stated that the use of these micromobility vehicles would be permitted in areas without mixed traffic flows.

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Why did the ban include wheelchairs and mobility scooters on roads?

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