Disability advocates push for modernization of rehabilitation laws

T Health Bureau (SSM) has proposed a comprehensive 10-year plan to improve rehabilitation services, but Macau has no immediate plans to review the disability legislation.

The SSM’s plan aims to establish public-private partnerships and promote accessibility and equal opportunities in sectors like education, employment, and transportation. However, in response to an inquiry from lawmaker Ho Ion Sang, the bureau said reviewing the basic law was not currently on the agenda.

While the plan seeks to promote independent living for people with disabilities, the lack of review since 1999 has raised concerns about the effectiveness of services, said Ho.

He argued that recently enacted laws may not be adequately addressing rehabilitation needs.

SSM director Alvis Lo highlighted potential benefits from regional cooperation. The plan for the Greater Bay Area and the Guangdong-Macau zone in Hengqin could boost employment and training opportunities for Macau healthcare professionals.

Lo acknowledged that promoting social inclusion requires a collective societal effort. “It is necessary to foster a more accessible and inclusive culture that respects persons with disabilities’ needs and ensures effective, personalized services,” Lo said.

The SSM has expanded outreach programs, such as remote nursing home services, but Sang and others argue the rehabilitation law itself merits examination after over two decades without review.

For now, the SSM plan focuses on partnerships and programs rather than legislative changes. However, scrutiny of rehabilitation policies and statutes may intensify if concerns over the responsiveness and modernization of services continue.

The government’s proposed 10-year plan aims to enhance accessibility and equal opportunities, but its reluctance to review the 1999 law has raised questions about the effectiveness of existing services.

According to the lawmaker, as Macau seeks to foster inclusion, the need to update the foundational legislation may become increasingly pressing.

Meanwhile, the SSM’s director emphasized regional cooperation and promoting a more accessible society.

Victoria Chan

Disability advocates push for modernization of rehabilitation laws

Disability advocates push for modernization of rehabilitation laws

Disability advocates push for modernization of rehabilitation laws

Disability advocates push for modernization of rehabilitation laws

Disability advocates push for modernization of rehabilitation laws