The blue and white icon used to mark areas that are accessible to wheelchair users is to be given a more 'dynamic' image after the transport authority approved a new international symbol.

“It is not only symbolic. I think it will help address the mentality that people on wheelchairs ‘have to be pushed’. The new icon is more dynamic and the message is that disabled people are proactive. It’s about empowerment,” said Oliver Scicluna, the chairman of the National Commission for Persons with Disability.

The new icon will replace the one that depicts a stick man passively sitting on a wheelchair.

In the new image, which is internationally recognised, the person on the wheelchair is leaning forward and the arms are pushing a chair that is in motion. There is more emphasis on the person.

Mr Scicluna said that Transport Malta had approved the new accessibility icon that promotes empowerment.

This new icon will be used to mark parking spots reserved for disabled people, public toilets and other areas accessible to people with disabilities.

Mr Scicluna added that the commission would also work on promoting the use of the new icon in hotels and other privately-owned establishments.