Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Experiences Life of the Visually Impaired
KUALA LUMPUR – Kuala Lumpur police chief Comm Datuk Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain recently took on a unique challenge to gain a deeper understanding of the difficulties faced by the blind. Accompanied by acting deputy police chief Senior Asst Comm Habibi Majinji and other senior officers, Comm Mohd Shuhaily walked the pedestrian walkway at Jalan Thambipillay in Brickfields with his eyes covered. This experience aimed to shed light on the hardships endured by visually impaired individuals.
During the walk on Wednesday (July 12), Comm Mohd Shuhaily observed the path used by the blind and empathized with their struggles. The headquarters of the Malaysian Association for the Blind is located on Jalan Tun Sambanthan 4, Brickfields, making this area particularly significant for the visually impaired community.
Recognizing the need for public responsibility in taking care of the walkway, Comm Mohd Shuhaily expressed his concern about selfish individuals obstructing the path with their vehicles. He emphasized the potential danger this poses, stating, “Just imagine if a motorcycle, with its exhaust still hot, is placed on the pathway for the blind. It could injure those using the pathway, even if the vehicle is only parked there for a short while.”
Drawing attention to the importance of respecting the rights of visually impaired individuals, Comm Mohd Shuhaily posed a thought-provoking question. He asked, “If our own family members are in such a situation (visually impaired), would we have the audacity to obstruct facilities for the blind?”
Comm Mohd Shuhaily hoped for improved behavior from road users, urging them to park at designated locations and not obstruct pathways for the differently abled. He believes that abiding by traffic laws and practicing good driving habits is a form of success in self-discipline. Additionally, he emphasized the need to instill education and discipline regarding the rights of others from a young age, starting in primary school.
Raising awareness through advice is one of the strategies employed by the KL police. Comm Mohd Shuhaily said, “As for the KL police, we create awareness among (the people) through advice, and more advice.”
Recent statistics show that from July 3 to Monday (July 10), a total of 1,061 traffic summonses were issued at Jalan Thambipillay, including cases of obstructing traffic and blocking pedestrian walkways. The police are committed to addressing these issues and reducing barriers for the blind.
In conclusion, Comm Mohd Shuhaily’s experience highlighted the importance of empathy, public responsibility, and respect for the rights of visually impaired individuals. By working together and enforcing proper behavior, we can create a safer and more inclusive environment for all members of society.
Credit: The Star : News Feed