Public transport is a lifeline for many, connecting individuals from all walks of life. However, for parents of children with intellectual disabilities, navigating public spaces can be daunting due to the fear of judgment and stigma. Recognising the need for greater inclusivity and understanding, Tower Transit has launched a heartening initiative that seeks to break down barriers and foster empathy within the community.
A Meaningful Journey Begins
For bus driver Hue Sze Wei, the announcement that service 173, which he operates, would feature artwork by students with intellectual disabilities was met with genuine enthusiasm. Having personally experienced the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, Mr. Hue was quick to embrace the initiative. His son, who attended a kindergarten for autistic children, once had a meltdown on public transport, prompting a stranger’s harsh reprimand. It’s experiences like these that drive home the importance of compassion and awareness.
Image from: CNA/Eugene Goh – “Bus captain Hue Sze Wei, 41, at Sembawang Bus Interchange on Apr 24, 2024.”
Art as a Tool for Advocacy
The unveiling of two buses adorned with artwork by students from MINDS Hub @ YMCA-MINDS Bukit Batok and Rainbow Centre Admiral Hill School marks a significant milestone in the journey towards inclusivity. As students gleefully admired their creations, poignant messages adorned the buses, urging the public to show understanding and patience during moments of distress. These artworks serve not only as expressions of creativity but also as powerful advocacy tools, challenging stereotypes and fostering dialogue.
Empowering Bus Drivers
Understanding that knowledge is key to fostering empathy, Tower Transit took proactive steps to equip its bus drivers with the skills needed to support passengers with intellectual disabilities. Visits to MINDS Hub @ YMCA-MINDS Bukit Batok and Rainbow Centre Admiral Hill School provided invaluable insights, enabling drivers to better navigate situations where children may experience meltdowns. By fostering a culture of understanding and support, Tower Transit is paving the way for a more inclusive public transport system.
The CARE Initiative: Spreading Compassion
The collaboration between Tower Transit and the Public Transport Council under the Caring Commuters Assist Readily with Empathy (CARE) bus initiative is a testament to the power of collective action. Building upon the success of previous efforts, this partnership seeks to create a more compassionate and inclusive environment for all commuters. By engaging with schools and communities, the CARE initiative aims to empower both passengers and drivers with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate diverse needs.
Image from: CNA/Eugene Goh – “12-year-old Austen Lim, a student at Rainbow Centre – Admiral Hill School, looks at his artwork on a bus with his mother at Sembawang Bus Interchange on Apr 24, 2024.”
Proud Parents, Proud Partners
At the heart of this initiative are the parents and caregivers whose unwavering support drives change. Muhd Sarhan Shafiee, whose son’s artwork adorns one of the buses, expresses pride and gratitude for the opportunity to raise awareness about intellectual disabilities. For Mr. Shafiee and countless others, initiatives like these offer hope for a more inclusive and understanding society.
Towards a More Inclusive Future
As the wheels of change continue to turn, initiatives like the one spearheaded by Tower Transit serve as beacons of hope in an often challenging landscape. By harnessing the power of art, education, and empathy, we can pave the way for a more inclusive future where every individual is valued and respected. As we journey forward, let us remember that small acts of kindness and understanding can have a profound impact on the lives of others.
*This article was from a piece by Justin Ong Guang-Xi for CNA.*