CHAPTER 1 - REPORT OF THE EDUCATION AND PROMOTION WORKING GROUP 4. RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWDs) Currently, there is no specific law or regulation on parking space, and no action can be taken against those who abuse parking space The EWG organised three Roundtable Discussions (RTDs) with local for PWDs. The rights of PWDs have been raised and discussed at length. They are among groups currently marginalised by society; hence there is a need to review the situation to protect their rights. Malaysia ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) on 6 July 2010, albeit with reservations to Articles 15 and 18. Malaysia has not signed the Optional Protocols to the treaty. However, ratification of the CRPD is a step toward proving that Malaysia intends to translate these rights into action. authorities and PWDs in Selangor, the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Perak and Penang. The RTDs focused on issues of accessibility and what local authorities can do to improve procedures, rules and regulations. The need to introduce facilities for a PWD-friendly environment and the removal of physical barriers were among the issues raised. A participant shares her views on the importance of education Of special concern to PWDs is the continuing abuse of parking space reserved for their vehicles. They raised the need for a standardised sticker to be displayed on their vehicles, as well as for legislation to penalise able-bodied drivers who park in reserved spaces. It was also pointed out that enforcement is sorely lacking in delivering provisions for PWDs under Section 34A of the Uniform Building By-Laws 1984, under the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974. For example, ramps do not comply with specifications, leading to such ‘facilities’ being of little use to PWDs and potentially life-threatening as well. 34