KUCHING: The society has been called upon to show continuous support and care for people with autism so that they can reach their full potential.
Deputy Minister of Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development II Mohammad Razi Sitam said that efforts to support and nurture autistic children require the involvement and cooperation of all parties, especially parents, teachers, and the local community.
“It is very important that every level of society respects diversity and accepts the differences that exist among people with autism,” he said.
Mohammad Razi, who was representing Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, said this during the Kuching Autistic Association’s (KAA) one-day mini bazaar and open day at the KAA Educational and Vocational Training Centre, Jalan Desa Wira, here today (Jan 14).
Most of society, he said, still perceives autistic children as being weird, showing inappropriate behaviours, slow, preferring to be alone, and others.
“As we are all aware of, autism is a condition related to brain development that starts in early childhood and affects the mental, social, and emotional development of someone with autism.
“Therefore, an increase in awareness of autism at all levels in the community should be done while showing support and care to autistic individuals,” he said.
He also lauded KAA for organising the mini bazaar and open day, as the programme aims to help students develop social skills, play skills, and communication skills with each other.
“Many of the activities on display today are training activities that form part of KAA’s vocational training programme, for example, painting, beadwork, cooking, gardening, and car washing.
“Today, we can see students and adult trainees working together in the activity area at the KAA grounds.
“Furthermore, it was heartwarming and inspiring to see what they were able to achieve with guidance and training from their teachers, including parents, who play an important role in providing training at home for their children,” he said.
Mohammad Razi also called upon the society to extend help and support, both in financial and moral terms, to the noble efforts carried out by KAA.
Meanwhile, as of Jan 1, KAA had recruited a total of 147 students and trainees, while 105 children aged three to 12 had registered for the Early Intervention Programme (EIP).
In addition, a total of 27 children aged 13 to 19 were enrolled in the Secondary Intervention Program (SIP), and 15 autistic adults are employed under the Sunshine Hub Sheltered Workshop Programme.
Later, the event also saw Mohammad Razi unveil the KAA’s fund-raising programme – Bunny Autism Run 2023, which will take place on April 30.
Also present were Sarawak Social Welfare Department (JKMS) director Adana Jed, KAA president Dr Catherine Chen, and KAA secretary Duane Reggie.
