INCLUSIVE DESIGN ADAPTATION WITHIN PWDS: ENHANCING MOBILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY FOR BETTERMENT OF DISABLED PERSON LIFE

 

 Dr. Ahmad Fairuz bin Ariff (Cide)

                                      Figure 01 – PWDs on mobility

 

People with disabilities (PWDs) are a significant and diverse part of Malaysian society. The 2008 PWDs Act defines them as individuals with physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory limitations that hinder full participation. Improving accessibility is essential for social justice and overall development. This article explores the evolution and challenges of inclusive design in Malaysia, focusing on mobility, policies, infrastructure, technology, and PWDs' experiences.

 

 2.0 What is inclusive design, and how does it apply in Malaysia?  

 2.1 Definition of "inclusive design"?   

 

British Standards Institute, stated that  inclusive design involves creating products and services that are accessible and usable by many people as possible without needing adaptation. Every design decision can include or exclude users, so inclusive design aims to better understand user diversity—covering abilities, needs, and aspirations—to include more people (University of Cambridge, 2017). In the built environment, inclusive design—also known as universal design, design for all, lifespan design, and more recently, ‘respect for people’—can foster innovation and new products (Elspeth Morrison, Andrew Walker, 2002).

It is a process that ensures products and environments serve the greatest number, regardless of age or ability, requiring designers, manufacturers, and service providers to address the needs of disabled people and promote an inclusive society. Working with specific users is crucial. Inclusive design considers the full range of human diversity, includes ability, language, culture, gender, and age (Justin Morales, 2021).

 

2.2 The difference between Universal Design and Inclusive Design  

         

Inclusive design is the spin off from Universal Design and it link between universal design and accessibility, as per figure shown.

Universal design works for everyone in all settings and environments; accessibility guarantees that all people have access to experiences; while inclusive design is a human-centered process that includes diversity to fulfil a variety of user demands. Understanding these variances is critical for successful design.

Figure 02 Relations among universal design, accessibility, & inclusive design

There are 3 main component embedded within inclusive Design Philosophy that is :

• 7 Principles (Ronald Mace, 1997)
• 3-Dimension Models (T. Page,1987)
• 11 Design Elements. (Sommer’s, 1978),

Each of them is interrelate in producing inclusive based product design. The detail component are as below illustrate:

                 Figure 03- Inclusive Design 3 Main Components

The designer and researcher will be using this design consideration to come out with the design for PWDs. The design process of inclusive design are difference from the industrial Design process.

 

2.3. Process of Inclusive Design

 

To design for PWDs, researchers or designers will be using inclusive design process to produce conceptual designs which the flow activity includes (proceeding knowledge, preparation and brief, developing design, detailing in design, constructing design, and validating design), E., Herssens, J. (2015) stated that V-model design approach attempts to improve efficiency and effectiveness. The model is illustrated as below:

               Figure 03 – V model Inclusive Design -The Design Process

 

 

During this design phase, the designer focuses on thoroughly researching the problem, producing user needs, and soliciting feedback. Then go through the typical design process, followed by user testing on the prototype to get input and satisfaction. Then when come to final stage, designer will perform user testing to get the comment and recommendation.

 

2.4. Benefits of Applying Inclusive Design Theory to Design

According to designcouncil.org.uk (2008), there are seven key benefits of integrating inclusive design into the design process:

 

1. Community Engagement: Involve community to create a sense of ownership to promote their health, prosperity, and sustainability.  

 

2. Broad User Inclusion:Consider a wide range of user characteristics and desires.   Identify early in the design process to focus on unity among users and challenges experienced by people with disabilities.
3. Versatility and Adaptability:

In terms of adaptability, inclusive design can be utilized in a range of situations that are familiar to people and have a specific objective.

4. Universal Benefits:

Designing for inclusiveness benefits everyone.   Making information available via materials, signage, lighting, contrast, and other aspects improves cognitive and emotional accessibility for all users, including those in the environment.

5. Continuous Process:

Inclusive design should be considered from the beginning and implemented throughout the project.  It assured that environments are accessible and helpful to all.

 

3.0 The Current Level of Mobility and Access

 

Malaysia’s private and public sectors are working together to create a more universal and inclusive built environment. The activities are listed as below:

 

1.   New buildings to follow Malaysian StandardsMS1183, MS1184, and MS1331 that provide guidelines for accessible design with specific features specify as easy-to-reach entrances, tactile flooring, clear signage, accessible bathrooms, and appropriately sized doors and passageways.

 

1. Retrofits:Since 1993, old buildings that being approved for modifications such as ramps and nonslip surfaces.   However, execution has been delayed, and many older structures remain inaccessible. Challenges include insufficient enforcement and monitoring of compliance.

III. High repair costs Discourage property owners from making changes. - Limited technology expertise and design methods do not prioritize accessibility.

 

4.0 Suggestions to Improve Inclusive Design in Malaysia's Policies & Rules

There are 3 main suggestions to Improve Inclusive Design in Malaysia's Policies and Rules:

 

1. To implementtighter building and transportation regulations, with penalties for non-compliance and incentives for early compliance.  
2. To prioritizeaccessibility and create a new infrastructure and technology.

• To setbudgets to upgrade buildings and public spaces, especially in high-need locales.

1. Community Engagement:  
2. To includespeople with disabilities (PWDs) in the planning, design, and evaluation of public spaces and services to ensure their relevance.  
3. To encouragecommunity-led initiatives and empower disability rights supporters to demand change and accountability.  
4. To includeuniversal and inclusive design training in architectural, engineering, and design education.  
5. To encourageinformation sharing through workshops, continuing education, and engagement with international organizations.

 

5. Solutions Utilizing Technology

There are 3 solutions to utilize technology which are:

 

1. To enhancedigital accessibility on websites and public information platforms.  
2. To provide grants and incentives to foster local innovation in assistive technologies.  
3. To usesmart city data analysis to improve mobility and accessibility systems.  

 

6. Conclusion

Improve accessibility in Malaysia required ongoing initiatives, legislation, innovation, and active participation from those affected.  While current standards and industry norms provide a solid basis, effective adoption required ongoing commitment and effort. Adopting inclusive design principles and encouraging cross-sector collaboration are key steps toward ensuring true accessibility and mobility for all.  This is not just an ethic requirement; it is necessary for social cohesion, prosperity, and human dignity.  Uniting inclusive design allows PWDs to join more actively and on their own in daily activities.

Date of Input: 03/10/2025 | Updated: 03/10/2025 | marini