By Aida Aziz
IPOH: A total of 27 parking spaces specifically for people with disabilities (OKU) have been provided in the city center of Ipoh, according to Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin.
He stated that the Ipoh City Council (MBI), as the local authority, is always attentive to the needs of this group, including basic amenities.
The 27 parking spaces are distributed across Pekan Lama, Pekan Baru, and Greentown.
However, he mentioned that the OKU parking facilities will be increased based on current demand and needs, mostly from clinics.
“There are 27 spaces in the city center alone, not the total number in the entire city.
“Every new development must provide OKU parking spaces.
“The applications usually come from residents or business owners, but we have guidelines to follow, and not all areas can be designated as OKU parking spaces.
“This is because the size and specifications for OKU parking are different from regular parking spaces, so some areas are unsuitable due to space constraints.
“Additionally, some clinics have requested that parking spaces be provided in front of their buildings.
“But we only allow them to be placed at the end of the clinic to prevent misuse by the clinic for their own use,” he said.
He said during a press conference after chairing the Full Council Meeting for July at the MBI Meeting Hall here today.
He added that the guidelines also include ramp facilities to ease access for wheelchair-bound individuals.
Previously, there were requests for MBI to increase the number of OKU parking spaces in Ipoh, as the current number was deemed insufficient.
According to one resident, these facilities are essential for OKU, especially in recreational parks, shopping malls, and health centers.
Meanwhile, Rumaizi added that MBI enforcement officers continuously monitor the misuse of these parking spaces.
“We constantly receive complaints regarding this issue, and if valid, enforcement officers will impose a fine at a certain rate.
“These parking spaces are only for vehicles with a special OKU sticker issued by the Social Welfare Department,” he added.
