Forum: Make it easier for fans with disabilities to enjoy historic sporting moments
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As a lifelong Singapore football fan, I was proud to follow the Lion City Sailors’ progression to the final of a prestigious continental competition ( Lion City Sailors reach historic Asian Champions League Two final despite 1-0 defeat by Sydney FC
On learning Singapore would host the final, I eagerly anticipated attending the match at Jalan Besar Stadium.
However, Sharjah FC’s concerns over the artificial turf prompted a venue shift to Bishan Stadium, regularly used by Lion City Sailors for home matches in the Singapore Premier League.
I checked that there was wheelchair access at Bishan Stadium, and requested wheelchair-accessible seating when ticket sales started on May 6.
The ticketing agent confirmed that there was a wheelchair bay, but companions are not allowed with wheelchair-users.
Instead, they have to buy separate tickets. Because tickets are sold out, I’m unable to attend this historic final.
My condition – Duchenne muscular dystrophy – necessitates constant breathing support and round-the-clock caregiving. The agent kindly offered to appeal for an exception to be made for me, but to no avail.
I share my experience not to gain sympathy, but in the hope that future sporting events in Singapore can better accommodate fans with medical disabilities like mine.
Inclusive seating and allowing companions to sit beside wheelchair-users significantly improve accessibility, empowering all fans to fully participate in national sporting moments.
Accessibility must remain vital to Singapore’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society.
Shalom Lim Ern Rong
