A disabled activist expressed disappointment with the RM100 increment in the monthly allowances for disabled people announced under the 2008 Budget.

At present, disabled people receive RM200 each month.

However, Anthony Thanasayan was not impressed. According to the wheelchair-bound activist, the extra amount was pittance.

"We should be given at least RM500," he said, adding that the government did not take into account the increase in medical cost.

On the same note, Thanasayan said it was difficult for many disabled people to independently claim the allowances from the Welfare Department.

"Many of the department offices are not disabled friendly. They should deliver the allowances straight to the houses of the affected people," he added.

Medical cost

Commenting further on the healthcare cost issue, he said:

"The Budget repeatedly emphasised on helping the low income group. Many disabled individuals belong to that group and the no income group.

"Healthcare is paramount of the disabled. Technically, treatment for us is free from the government, but the cost of medicine is killing us. And in Hospital Kuala Lumpur, we have to pay for parking. These are the little things that the government fails to see."

Thanasayan, however, lauded the Budget announcement that there would be tax relief for employers who undertake renovations on their premises in order to make it disabled friendly.

"It's better late than never," he said.

The 2008 Budget also announced a RM300 special allowance for caretakers of disabled people who are completely immobile or facing chronic diseases.