MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA — Mudik Inklusi Ramah Anak dan Disabilitas (MIRAD), a movement that provides safe and inclusive transportation for people with disabilities during Eid al-Fitr, has successfully facilitated the return trip of 278 people with disabilities, their companions, and families.
The return trip, which began on Sunday (April 14) and ended on Monday (April 15), utilized buses, trains, and airplanes to transport participants from various regions in Java back to their hometowns. On April 14, there were buses and trains. Buses departed from Madiun, Ngawi, Solo, Semarang, and Jakarta. Trains also departed from several stations in Central Java, such as Semarang and Purworejo.
Catur Sigit Nugroho, the coordinator of MIRAD, expressed his satisfaction with the successful completion of the return trip. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders, including the government, state-owned enterprises, and civil society organizations, in ensuring the accessibility and inclusivity of transportation for people with disabilities.
Fajri Hidayatullah, the chairman of the Muhammadiyah Association for People with Disabilities (PP Hidimu), applauded the MIRAD initiative, emphasizing its alignment with the principle of inclusivity in all sectors, including public services and transportation.
Fajri stressed that inclusivity is a constitutional mandate, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their ability, has equal access to all facilities and services provided by the state. He emphasized the importance of upholding Law Number 25 of 2009 on Public Services, which guarantees the right of people with disabilities to equal access to public services.
He further emphasized the significance of providing adequate facilities for people with disabilities, going beyond the provision of escorts. Hidayatullah underscored the principle of independence in the perspective of people with disabilities, which prioritizes the availability of complete facilities before relying on escorts.
Fajri also highlighted the role of digitalization in promoting equality and inclusivity for people with disabilities. He envisioned a future where digital technology is seamlessly integrated into transportation modes, enabling people with disabilities to access and utilize them independently.
Fajri stated that, with digitalization, people with disabilities can enjoy and experience everything, fostering their independence,” Farjri stated.
He emphasized that digitalization should not be limited to transportation but should be embraced across all sectors of life.
The successful implementation of MIRAD is a testament to the collective efforts of various stakeholders committed to ensuring the accessibility and inclusivity of transportation for people with disabilities. By prioritizing their needs and aspirations, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.
